Colombian town devastated by earthquake, appeals for urgent aid

The Colombian municipality of El Cairo lies in ruins after a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck on August 10. Located just 22 kilometers from the epicenter in San José del Palmar, Chocó, El Cairo suffered catastrophic damage, with an estimated 80% of its buildings destroyed. The local hospital, Santa Catalina, also sustained damage.

More than 24 hours after the 90-second tremor, the town remains without electricity or internet, deepening its isolation. "We are without water, without internet, without energy. We are incommunicado. Please, send help, people to collaborate, the need is great," a local resident, Ines Montoya, tearfully told El Tiempo.

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We are without water, without internet, without energy. We are incommunicado. Please, send help, people to collaborate, the need is great.

The town's mayor, Carlos Castro Correa, described the widespread destruction, noting that most houses, built with traditional "bareque" (wood and mud) construction, are over 100 years old and highly susceptible to damage. "I would say 100% of the buildings in the municipality have some type of damage, mainly to the roof," he stated. He appealed to regional and national governments for reconstruction materials, emphasizing that the majority of the population has limited financial resources.

While the mayor confirmed that water and gas services have been restored, electricity remains out. He mentioned that although roads are passable, debris in several locations has hindered the arrival of aid. "We are waiting for a response," he said, noting that the governor had spoken with the President about the situation. The local hospital reported admitting five severely injured individuals, with two transferred to Cartago and one to Tuluá for more complex care. So far, two deaths have been confirmed.

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I would say 100% of the buildings in the municipality have some type of damage, mainly to the roof. Many homes were destroyed, most with damage to the roofs.