At least 132 dead in the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck western Colombia

At least 132 people lost their lives and 570 were injured in a magnitude 7.4 earthquake that hit western and central Colombia on Monday, according to the Colombian Association of Capital Cities. The earthquake struck at 07:34 with its epicenter near San José del Palmar, in Chocó department, at a depth of over 80 kilometers. This is the strongest quake Colombia has experienced in the past decade.

The majority of the fatalities occurred in Pereira and its metropolitan area. Damage assessments from various local authorities report differing numbers of fatalities and injuries. The earthquake caused over 1,500 homes to be damaged, with 37 completely destroyed and 61 collapsing. Additionally, 18 health centers, 52 schools, 17 community centers, and 18 roads sustained damage.

The civil aviation authority suspended operations at seven air terminals, and several hospitals were partially collapsed or closed due to structural damage. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with the capital dispatching a hundred rescue workers. The government has declared a national disaster situation and is leading a unified command post. International assistance is being coordinated by the foreign ministry.