A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the Chocó region of Colombia on Monday morning, resulting in at least 111 confirmed deaths and significant structural damage across the country. The tremor originated at a depth of 107km and caused widespread destruction, including the collapse of dozens of buildings in cities such as Cali and Manizales. Reports indicate that at least 87 people are currently injured as emergency crews work through debris to locate survivors.
President Abelardo De La Espriella has declared a national emergency to coordinate rescue operations and address the needs of displaced citizens. Local officials confirm that emergency teams are actively searching for individuals trapped beneath rubble. While the quake's depth mitigated some potential for surface-level destruction, the energy release caused severe damage to unreinforced masonry buildings in multiple urban centers.
International leaders have pledged immediate support to aid the ongoing search and rescue missions. Governments including France, Mexico, the United States, and member states of the European Union have offered personnel and medical supplies. The Colombian government remains focused on stabilizing impacted areas and providing aid to families displaced by the loss of their homes.
Witnesses describe the experience as sudden and terrifying, with reports of buildings rocking and structural failures occurring within seconds. As local authorities and international partners continue their efforts, the government has called for national unity to manage the recovery phase. Updates will continue as rescue teams move further into the affected zones.