Colombia earthquake death toll rises as frantic search for survivors continues

The devastation has tested Colombia's new president and his government as it scrambles to respond to the disaster and civil society as it pushes to provide aid to the most affected communities.

cbsnews.com ·2h ago

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia on Monday, causing widespread devastation and prompting a frantic search for survivors. The death toll has risen to at least 265, with nearly 500 people reported missing. Over 25,800 families have been affected by the disaster. Rescue teams are racing against time to find and rescue survivors, as the first 48 to 72 hours are critical for their survival.

The mayor of Cali, Alejandro Eder, said that signs of people alive under the rubble can still be found, and the likelihood of rescue is highest during this critical period. In Pereira, a 32-year-old woman named Daniela Largo was pulled alive from the rubble after a 12-hour rescue operation. Aid agencies are working to provide shelter, food, and medical care to the displaced population, but the ongoing crises of poverty and civil warfare in the region have complicated the official response.

Several countries, including the United States, Mexico, and El Salvador, have offered aid and assistance to Colombia.

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