The death toll from the earthquake in Colombia has exceeded 250, and rescuers are searching for people under the rubble
Kyiv • UNN
An earthquake measuring 7.4 in magnitude struck western Colombia, killing at least 254 people. Rescuers continue searching beneath the debris, while operations in the Chocó region are hampered by a lack of communication.
The death toll from a powerful earthquake in western Colombia has risen to at least 254, while rescuers continue searching for people under the rubble of collapsed buildings. Reuters reports, as reported by UNN.
Details
A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck early on August 10, affecting the country's western regions, including the coffee-growing region. The powerful tremors damaged or destroyed residential buildings, schools, and medical facilities.
According to local authorities, 101 people were killed in Pereira and another 95 in Cali. The total number of victims is still being clarified, as communication with some affected areas remains unstable.
Rescuers worked overnight and on Tuesday, using cranes, excavators, and other equipment. In places where heavy machinery could not reach the rubble, people cleared the debris by hand and formed human chains to move it. Rescuers also asked those present to remain silent so they could hear possible signals from people trapped under the rubble.
The situation in the Chocó region is complicating rescue operations
In the forested areas of the department of Chocó, located near the earthquake's epicenter, some communities remain without electricity and basic services. Difficult terrain and communication problems are hindering rescue teams' access to the affected settlements.
The earthquake also caused significant damage to housing and rural infrastructure. Preliminary estimates indicate that more than 5,000 homes were damaged. The National Federation of Coffee Growers is working with local families to assess the damage caused to farms and the infrastructure of the coffee-growing region.
Nearly 100 aftershocks were recorded in the region following the main earthquake. Authorities continue the search-and-rescue operation, as the extent of the destruction in some areas has still not been fully determined.