Colombia enters final search phase after devastating earthquake kills 265

Rescue teams in Colombia are entering the critical final phase of their search for survivors following a devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake, the most powerful to strike the nation this century. The natural disaster has claimed the lives of 265 people, left more than 3,500 injured, and left nearly 500 individuals unaccounted for, according to local authorities.

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We will hold on until the very end

In cities like Cali and Pereira, rescuers have been working tirelessly for three consecutive nights, using their bare hands, cranes, and search dogs. Their efforts are focused on listening for any signs of life beneath the rubble. The 72-hour mark after the earthquake, a period considered crucial for finding survivors, is rapidly approaching, intensifying the urgency of the operations.

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As you can see, we are all here, the entire city of Cali, hoping to find more survivors

Residents like Martha Perez in Cali express a profound sense of helplessness as two of her relatives are believed to be trapped under collapsed buildings. "We will hold on until the very end," she told AFP, echoing the hope shared by many. Volunteer rescuer Fernando Loaiza noted the collective hope in Cali, stating, "As you can see, we are all here, the entire city of Cali, hoping to find more survivors."

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entering the final stage

Mayor Alejandro Eder of Cali has declared that rescue operations are "entering the final stage." Newly appointed Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has designated the disaster an "economic state of emergency" and announced a three-day national mourning period. "We will do what is necessary," he stated, vowing to help the country and society "stand up again." The earthquake has destroyed over 11,000 homes, leaving thousands of families displaced and facing immense hardship.

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We will do what is necessary