Video: Panic in Colombia as 7.4 magnitude earthquake shakes city, people flee ruins

Panic gripped western Colombia as a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck on Monday, leaving at least 20 people dead and causing widespread destruction. Dramatic scenes unfolded as parts of buildings crumbled and residents fled in terror, with screams echoing as debris fell.

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Panic gripped western Colombia as a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck on Monday, leaving at least 20 people dead and causing widespread destruction.

The earthquake's epicenter was located near San José del Palmar in the Chocó department. The tremors were felt across numerous Colombian regions and even in neighboring Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama. The Colombian Geological Survey reported it as the strongest earthquake in the country in a decade.

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Dramatic scenes unfolded as parts of buildings crumbled and residents fled in terror, with screams echoing as debris fell.

Cali, in particular, faced a dire situation with numerous buildings collapsing and people trapped under rubble, according to Mayor Alejandro Eder. Significant damage was also reported in Pereira, Manizales, and Quibdó, with casualties confirmed in Manizales. Images of collapsing facades and building parts emerged from several cities.

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The Colombian Geological Survey reported it as the strongest earthquake in the country in a decade.

Air traffic was temporarily suspended at six Colombian airports due to potential damage. Rescue teams are actively searching for survivors trapped in the debris, while authorities warn of possible aftershocks.

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Cali, in particular, faced a dire situation with numerous buildings collapsing and people trapped under rubble, according to Mayor Alejandro Eder.