The death toll from a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake in Colombia has risen to 265, while more than 3,500 people have been injured. Around 500 people are still missing, and rescue teams continue to search through the rubble for survivors.
Reuters reported that the earthquake caused widespread damage across cities in western Colombia, including Cali, Pereira, Manizales and Quibdo. In some areas, parts of buildings collapsed, while in others, entire structures were reduced to rubble.
Rescue workers are using heavy machinery, sniffer dogs and specialised equipment to search for survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings. The rescue operation has been intensified as teams race against the critical 72-hour window following the earthquake to locate and save those who may still be alive.
Meanwhile, international assistance is arriving to support disaster response and reconstruction efforts. Several countries, including the United States, have offered help with rescue and relief operations. The United States has announced nearly $15.5 million in emergency assistance, while Mexico and El Salvador have also taken steps to send aid.
On Wednesday, Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella declared an economic emergency to help the country recover from the earthquake. He also announced the creation of a “Miracle Fund” for reconstruction. The fund will collect domestic and international contributions to finance the rebuilding of hospitals, schools, buildings, roads and other infrastructure damaged by the earthquake.
President de la Espriella’s measures are aimed at speeding up reconstruction in the affected areas while providing support to families who have lost homes and livelihoods, as well as restoring critical infrastructure.
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