Colombia scrambles to find survivors as quake kills 111

A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck several Colombian cities on Monday, claiming at least 111 lives and causing extensive damage. The quake hit after 7:30 am (1230 GMT) in the picturesque coffee region and Pacific coast, sending residents fleeing in panic. Quibdo resident Wilmer Cuesta recounted the violent shaking and witnessed people jumping from second-story homes, while in Cali, volunteers began searching for survivors with bare hands and basic tools.

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a state of emergency and vowed a concerted rescue effort. The quake was felt across Colombia and neighboring countries, including Ecuador and Panama. Hospitals in five Colombian cities were put on red alert, and a nighttime curfew was declared in Cali. At least six airports suspended operations.

Pop megastar Shakira called for unity, urging Colombians to "hold each other tight." The death toll was expected to rise as rescuers continued searching collapsed buildings throughout the affected cities.