Terrifying video shows hospital collapse during 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Cali

Dramatic footage has emerged showing the terrifying moments of a magnitude 7.4 earthquake striking the Hospital Universitario del Valle (HUV) in Cali, Colombia, on August 10. The quake, which hit at 7:34 a.m., caused the hospital's structure to violently shake, leading to the collapse of walls on several floors.

Security cameras within the hospital recorded harrowing scenes. Cars were seen rocking violently in parking lots as staff and patients fled in panic. The earthquake caused three floors of Block 2, housing pediatrics, neonatology, and internal medicine, to crumble rapidly. This devastation necessitated the immediate evacuation of hundreds of patients.

The HUV, a major healthcare facility in southwestern Colombia with a capacity for 600 patients, was severely impacted. During the quake, 1,800 staff members were on duty. In a race against time, efforts were made to move all 600 patients to the hospital's gardens and parking areas, where makeshift treatment zones were established. Medical personnel worked tirelessly to keep a close watch on patients, many of whom were on life support.

Minister of Transport Elsa Noguera and the governor inspected the damage to coordinate national government investment for reconstruction. The event has prompted a swift response, with emergency protocols activated and rescue teams mobilized to assist those affected by the catastrophic event.