Colombia quake death toll reaches 224 with more than 2,700 missing

A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, claiming 224 lives and leaving over 2,700 people missing. The disaster has caused significant damage to around 1,600 buildings, predominantly in the underdeveloped regions of the country. Venezuelan President Abelardo de la Espriella pledged a comprehensive government response to the crisis, deploying military and police personnel along with rescue teams and search dogs. He also announced rental subsidies for affected families to aid in repairs.

The quake's impact was most severe in the cities of Cali, Quibdo, and Pereira. In Quibdo, the capital of Colombia's Choco department, public services and communication infrastructure were reportedly incapacitated. Local officials expressed concern over the lack of information about the full extent of damage in Choco, a region already known for poverty and neglect.

President de la Espriella visited Quibdo on Monday night to gauge the damage firsthand. He pledged assistance to victims, including rental subsidies and emergency aid. The US State Department also pledged $15.5 million for emergency shelter, food, and other necessities.

The earthquake follows a series of devastating quakes in neighboring Venezuela in June, which claimed over 6,300 lives. Colombians are still grappling with the aftermath of those disasters and are now confronting a new crisis. Mónica Sánchez, a business owner whose company produces work uniforms, lost her home in Pereira when a wall collapsed. She described the city falling around them as they scrambled to safety.

Another local, Andres Hernandez, a tattoo artist, expressed anxiety about the risk of additional buildings collapsing. He recounted the surreal moment the earthquake struck, likening it to a movie scene with poles, cables, and everything else swaying. He expressed worry for his family and friends.