Major quake rocks Colombia and neighbours, 18 confirmed dead
Colombian officials said they did not fear a tsunami after the early-morning quake, which was also felt in Ecuador, Panama and Venezuela.
A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, August 10, killing over 100 people and causing extensive damage. President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a national state of emergency, with authorities deploying all resources to rescue trapped individuals and provide aid. The quake, the strongest of the 21st century in Colombia, had a depth of 107km and struck the provinces of Valle del Cauca, Quibdo, and Cali.
Rescue workers and volunteers worked tirelessly to pull survivors from rubble, while authorities imposed curfews and increased security due to looting threats. The US Geological Survey confirmed the quake's magnitude, while Colombia's geological service stated it was the country's strongest earthquake in recent history. The Petronio Alvarez festival in Cali was postponed, and several airports in the region were suspended for structural inspections.
Emergency funds, including 1 million Swiss francs from the IFRC, were allocated to support relief efforts.
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