A powerful earthquake measuring magnitude 7.4 struck Colombia’s Pacific coast, resulting in at least 111 confirmed deaths across the country, according to official reports. The quake’s epicenter was located near the eastern tip of the Choco province, close to the Tatama National Nature Reserve.
Rescue operations are underway in several cities including Cali, where multiple buildings collapsed leaving residents trapped. New government leadership has declared a national state of emergency to coordinate the response and prioritize locating survivors.
Support and monitoring efforts are being extended by international entities including the European Union and the United States, as the scale of destruction continues to emerge.
Casualties and Structural Damage
Colombian authorities have reported 111 fatalities and 87 injuries directly related to the earthquake. The damage assessment includes 1,575 homes affected, with 37 completely destroyed and 61 buildings collapsed. Additionally, 18 health centers and 52 schools experienced significant damage.
The Valle del Cauca region, where Cali is located, reported at least 27 deaths, while the Risaralda state confirmed around 40 deaths. The Choco region, where the earthquake’s epicenter lies, recorded 12 deaths and 84 injuries as of midday local time. Two deaths were also reported in Manizales, Caldas region.
Impact on Infrastructure and Transportation
Air travel has been disrupted as Colombia’s civil aviation authority reported structural damage at six airports including those in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdo, Armenia, Cartago, and Buenaventura. Operations at these airports remain suspended pending safety inspections. Cali’s airport was later also added to this list.
Geological Details and Aftershocks
The United States Geological Survey confirmed the earthquake’s magnitude at 7.4, revising their initial measurements. The seismic event occurred approximately 107 kilometers below the surface, affecting the western half of Colombia and causing tremors felt as far as Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela.
A significant aftershock of magnitude 5.0 was recorded less than an hour following the main quake. This earthquake lies along the Pacific coast in a region known for tectonic activity within the Ring of Fire, the world’s most active volcanic and seismic belt.
Government and International Response
Colombia’s newly inaugurated government has taken immediate charge of emergency efforts, emphasizing the priority of rescuing anyone still trapped. The mayor of Cali has requested additional rescue teams from neighboring cities to assist ongoing efforts.
The European Union has mobilized its Copernicus satellite service to support rescue workers, and the EU leadership expressed solidarity with Colombia’s citizens. Meanwhile, the U.S. government is closely monitoring the situation and stands ready to provide assistance as needed.
