Colombia declares three days mourning for quake victims
BOGOTA: Colombia on Wednesday declared three days of mourning for victims of an earthquake that demolished buildings in the west of the country, killing more than 200 people.
Colombia has declared three days of national mourning for the victims of a devastating earthquake that struck the western region of the country, resulting in over 200 deaths. The 7.4 magnitude quake was the strongest to hit Colombia this century. The government ordered flags to be flown at half-staff on official buildings and Colombian embassies worldwide.
Rescue efforts intensified to find survivors amidst the rubble, with emergency crews utilizing cranes, dogs, and heavy machinery in Pereira and Cali. On Tuesday, 32-year-old Daniela Largo was rescued, reigniting hope for those trapped. The quake caused widespread destruction, with many neighborhoods in Cali appearing flattened, and cars crushed beneath debris.
The health system struggled to cope, prolonging the rescue operation into a major disaster response. Survivors, many sleeping outdoors, expressed gratitude for their survival. In Cali, part of the Hospital Universitario del Valle collapsed, forcing medical staff to treat patients in a parking lot. Colombians rallied to aid the affected areas, donating water, food, and supplies, and long lines formed at blood donation centers.
President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a state of emergency and pledged rent subsidies for affected families. The United States pledged $15.5 million in emergency aid, and messages of support poured in from around the globe.
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