Colombia Earthquake Claims Lives and Causes Widespread Damage

In western Colombia, search and rescue operations commenced early Tuesday, following a major earthquake that struck the region, resulting in at least 111 fatalities and numerous individuals trapped beneath debris. The earthquake, registering a magnitude of 7.4, impacted Cali, Quibdo, Pereira, and several other cities and towns, causing approximately 1,600 buildings to be damaged or collapsed.

Soldiers, rescue teams, and families worked tirelessly to clear rubble, passing large concrete pieces along volunteer lines. President Abelardo de la Espriella reported Monday afternoon the confirmed death toll of 111 individuals. Families utilized citizen-run websites to share details about missing loved ones. By Monday night, over 2,700 missing person reports were registered.

One of the missing individuals is Miguel Ángel Zamora, 60, a farmer from a rural area in El Cairo, close to the earthquake’s epicenter in San Jose Del Palmar. Dana Carolina Zamora shared an image of her uncle online, who was last seen with his dog. Local authorities reported that 80% of El Cairo, home to about 7,000 residents, sustained damage. Concerns are prevalent due to Zamora’s uncle’s residence in a fragile house made from sticks and mud. Dana Carolina Zamora expressed her worries, hoping her uncle was safe and communication channels were merely disrupted.

Choco, encompassing the quake’s epicenter, is among Colombia’s poorest and often overlooked areas, plagued by armed conflicts. Accessibility challenges exist, with much of Choco reachable only by boat, through jungle paths, or via air travel. Limited information is available concerning the extent of damage in the region. President de la Espriella visited Choco’s capital, Quibdo, Monday night to evaluate the devastation. He announced mobilization efforts involving military, police, engineers, rescue teams, and search dogs. Additionally, rental subsidies were introduced for residents whose homes were damaged during repairs, with a commitment that Choco will not remain neglected.

This disaster is the first major challenge for President de la Espriella since assuming office on Friday. His leadership style is contentious due to his staunch position on eliminating criminal groups. In support, the U.S. State Department committed $15.5 million for emergency shelter, food, and aid. Various Latin American governments pledged assistance as well.

The earthquake unnerved many citizens, following recent devastating quakes in neighbor Venezuela that resulted in massive destruction and over 6,300 deaths. Colombians are beginning to confront the enduring impacts of the disaster. Mónica Sánchez, owner of a work uniform company in Pereira, one of the hardest-hit areas, recounted the collapse of a factory wall. She and her 12 employees evacuated just before the destruction. Sánchez described the shock and city devastation around them.