Colombia Earthquake Toll Rises to 265 Dead, 3,494 Injured

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Colombia, leaving a devastating trail of destruction and casualties. Official figures report 265 fatalities and 3,494 individuals injured. The disaster has also resulted in 496 people missing and has impacted the lives of over 53,000 residents.

The earthquake's epicenter was located in San José del Palmar, within the Chocó department. Major cities including Cali, Pereira, Quibdó, Manizales, and Armenia remain on high alert. The seismic event caused the collapse of 257 structures and damaged 129 road sections, 20 bridges, and 43 aqueducts. Two airports also sustained damage, further complicating relief efforts.

Authorities are continuing search and rescue operations in the hardest-hit areas. The Institute of Legal Medicine has received 202 bodies, with 122 identified so far. Identification and body return processes are ongoing in Palmira and Tuluá. President Abelardo de la Espriella has declared an economic emergency to address the crisis. He announced the establishment of the "Fondo Milagro," a fund designed to channel national and international resources towards rebuilding essential infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, homes, roads, and airports, prioritizing the most affected zones.

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The Fondo Milagro will be an entity that will channel national and international resources for the reconstruction of hospitals, educational centers, housing, roads, and airports.