Earthquake in Colombia: More than 72 hours after quake, death toll rises

Hope is dwindling in Colombia as rescuers continue their search for survivors more than 72 hours after a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the country. The confirmed death toll has climbed to at least 273, according to national disaster management authorities.

David Santiago Tamayo, director of the national disaster response agency, reported that over 3,800 people have been injured. The seismic event has devastated infrastructure, with nearly 12,600 homes completely destroyed and more than 74,800 others damaged. This has left thousands of people displaced and in urgent need of shelter and aid.

Rescue teams have been making desperate appeals for silence during their search, listening for any signs of life. The initial 48 to 72 hours after an earthquake are considered critical for rescuing victims alive. While this crucial window has now passed, aid organizations note that individuals with access to water and food could potentially survive for longer periods.

In a show of solidarity, numerous Latin American music stars are organizing a benefit concert to raise funds for the victims of the earthquakes in Colombia and Venezuela. Scheduled for Sunday in Miami, the event will feature artists such as Marc Anthony, Luis Fonsi, Chayanne, Feid, and Jay Wheeler. Proceeds from ticket sales and online donations will support both immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts, including rebuilding homes and repairing schools and community facilities. The concert was initially planned solely for Venezuelan earthquake victims but was expanded to include Colombia after the recent devastating tremors.