Colombia earthquake toll rises to 288 dead, 202 missing

The death toll from a magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Colombia has risen to 288, with 202 people still missing, according to the latest report from the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD).

The earthquake's epicenter was in San José del Palmar, Chocó department, in the Pacific region. It injured 4,018 people and left 354 rescued from the rubble. Five days after the quake, the scale of the tragedy continues to grow as authorities reach remote areas.

The UNGRD reported that 145,601 people from 57,516 families across 448 municipalities in 15 departments are now affected. The tremor damaged 80,744 homes, destroyed 12,504, and caused 66 buildings to collapse, primarily in Cali and Pereira. Infrastructure damage includes 2,595 educational centers, 260 health centers, 267 roads, 87 aqueducts, 55 bridges, and five airports.

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella described the situation in Pereira as "apocalyptic" after visiting the city. The UNGRD stated it continues to coordinate response and relief efforts in the affected territories. This earthquake is the strongest to hit Colombia in a quarter-century, also impacting the Caldas and Quindío departments.