A massive 7.4 magnitude earthquake shook western Colombia on Monday, claiming at least 111 lives and trapping many people under the debris. Cities like Cali, Quibdo, Pereira, and other regions experienced severe damages. Around 1,600 structures either fell or suffered damage.
Rescue teams, soldiers, and volunteers worked tirelessly, passing large concrete pieces by hand to clear the rubble. President Abelardo de la Espriella informed on Monday afternoon that 111 fatalities had been confirmed. Citizens posted details about missing family members on community-driven websites, with over 2,700 reported missing by Monday night. Dana Carolina Zamora shared a photo of her missing 60-year-old uncle, Miguel Ángel Zamora, who lived near the quake’s epicenter in San Jose Del Palmar.
Local reports indicated that about 80% of El Cairo, a town of 7,000 people, suffered damage. Zamora expressed concern over her uncle’s home, built traditionally from sticks and mud. “We are afraid. We hope he is safe and it’s only a communication issue,” she expressed.
Choco, near the quake’s center, remains under-reported due to its remote and conflict-affected status. It’s primarily accessible by boat, jungle paths, or air. President de la Espriella visited Quibdo, Choco’s capital, to oversee the damage. He mobilized military and police resources, sending engineers, rescuers, and search dogs to assist. Rental subsidies will be provided to those whose homes were damaged.
De la Espriella, who assumed office last Friday, stated that Choco will no longer be a neglected region. The earthquake emerges as a significant initial challenge for his leadership, particularly given his tough stance on criminal groups.
The U.S. State Department has pledged $15.5 million for immediate relief, with aid also coming from various Latin American nations.
This disaster comes shortly after two damaging earthquakes hit neighboring Venezuela in late June, resulting in over 6,300 deaths and leaving a lasting impact.
Mónica Sánchez, a small business owner in Pereira, experienced her factory’s wall collapse during the quake. Her and her team evaded harm but reflected on the event’s intensity, stating, “It was shocking — the city fell down around us.”
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