Colombian President Reports 35 Dead, 188 Missing in Cali After Earthquake

The devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia on Monday has left a significant toll, with the city of Cali reporting at least 35 fatalities and 188 people missing. President Abelardo de la Espriella provided an update on the disaster's impact in Cali, stating that the city has also suffered around 700 injuries and approximately 5,000 homes have been destroyed or damaged.

President de la Espriella, who recently assumed office, announced that three hospitals in Cali have collapsed, and 18 others sustained damage. The city's airport also suffered damage, leading to restricted operations. He confirmed that extensive search and rescue teams, including canine units, have been deployed throughout Cali to locate the 188 individuals still unaccounted for, with operations continuing through the night.

Nationwide, the earthquake has claimed at least 132 lives, according to figures from the Association of Capital Cities of Colombia (Asocapitales). However, the national government had not released consolidated data since midday Monday. The epicenter of the earthquake was located near San José del Palmar in the Chocó department, where the president reported 13 deaths, 119 injuries, and five disappearances.

President de la Espriella established a Unified Command Post in Bogotá before traveling to Chocó and then Cali to assess the damage and coordinate the response. The government is working to provide an immediate, coordinated, and humane response to the affected populations.