Over 130 Dead in Powerful Earthquake That Struck Colombia

A devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake has rocked Colombia, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming at least 132 lives, with over 570 people injured. The preliminary death toll, updated as of Sunday evening local time, indicates that 87 victims were registered in capital cities across the country.

Pereira emerged as the epicenter of the tragedy, reporting 60 fatalities. Cali followed with 15 deaths, Quibdó with eight, and Manizales with four. The casualty figures are expected to rise as rescue teams continue their grim work. The earthquake caused 86 buildings to collapse and led to the suspension of operations at seven airports. In Cali, the mayor imposed a curfew and militarized the city to manage the emergency, as hospitals reached full capacity.

Cali's health secretary reported at least 26 deaths and 456 injuries in the city alone. Four major healthcare facilities were evacuated, including the Hospital Universitario del Valle Evaristo García, where a partial collapse occurred. Medical staff are treating patients in makeshift tents set up in hospital gardens while assessing structural damage and reorganizing services.

Amidst the devastation, a glimmer of hope emerged as rescuers pulled a mother and her newborn baby from the rubble of a collapsed five-story building in Cali. Both were trapped but are reported to be out of danger. The United States has pledged $15.5 million in emergency aid to support Colombia's relief efforts, focusing on temporary housing, food, protection measures, and damage assessments.

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We are united in prayer with the Colombian people and ready to support President Abelardo de la Espriella and his government as they assess the needs on the ground.