Colombia declares state of emergency after quake kills 111

Pereira, Colombia - In the wake of a devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake, Colombia's national government has declared a state of emergency, responding to the tragic loss of at least 111 lives and widespread damage. The seismic event struck western Colombia early Monday morning, prompting an urgent rescue operation in affected cities.

President Abelardo de la Espriella, who assumed office just three days prior, reported the grim figures of 111 fatalities, 87 injuries, and the collapse of over 1,000 buildings. The quake's epicenter was situated in Colombia's coastal Choco region, at a depth of 100 kilometers.

The impoverished Choco area bore the brunt of the disaster, with authorities documenting 12 deaths. Pereira, the provincial capital of Risaralda, emerged as one of the hardest-hit cities, with local authorities confirming that at least 40 individuals perished in the region.

Among the notable structures impacted was the iconic cathedral in Manizales, whose tower was utterly destroyed. The authorities are mobilizing all available resources to safeguard lives, support stricken communities, and provide aid to every zone in need.