Colombia declares state of emergency after quake kills 111

Colombia has declared a state of emergency following a devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck the western region of the country on Monday morning. The powerful tremor claimed at least 111 lives and left dozens of buildings in ruins, trapping numerous victims beneath the debris. President Abelardo de la Espriella, who assumed office just three days ago, confirmed the tragic toll of 111 deaths, with 87 people injured and over a thousand structures damaged across the affected areas.

The epicenter of the quake was located in Colombia's coastal Choco region, situated 100 kilometers (60 miles) beneath the Earth's surface.

The earthquake's impact was felt most acutely in the impoverished Choco region, where authorities reported 12 fatalities. The provincial capital of Risaralda, home to Pereira, was among the hardest-hit areas, with local officials reporting a staggering 40 deaths. Among the most severely affected cities was Manizales, where the quake caused significant damage, including the collapse of a tower belonging to the city's beloved cathedral.

As the national government mobilizes all its resources to protect lives, assist affected communities, and provide aid to every region in need, rescue teams are racing against time to locate survivors amidst the rubble.