Colombia Earthquake Horror: 7.4-Magnitude Quake Kills 111, Rescue Teams Race to Save Those Trapped Under Rubble

Bogotá: Colombia is grappling with a devastating earthquake after a powerful 7.4-magnitude tremor struck the western part of the country, leaving at least 111 people dead and causing widespread destruction. Dozens of buildings have collapsed, while rescue teams continue to search through the rubble for survivors.

The earthquake struck on Monday and was centered near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region. Strong tremors were felt across several parts of Colombia, as well as in neighboring Ecuador and Panama. Major damage has been reported in areas including Cali, Pereira, Quibdó and Manizales. More than 1,600 structures have reportedly been damaged or collapsed.

Race Against Time to Rescue Survivors

The biggest challenge facing emergency teams is reaching people who may still be trapped beneath collapsed buildings. Soldiers, emergency personnel, rescue workers and volunteers are working with heavy machinery to clear debris and locate survivors.

Authorities are continuing to assess the extent of the destruction, particularly in remote areas where damaged roads and infrastructure are making rescue operations difficult. Several airports in the affected region have also suspended or restricted operations for safety inspections.

International Support Pours In

The devastating earthquake has triggered an international response, with several countries expressing solidarity with Colombia and offering assistance.

France has conveyed its support to the Colombian people, with President Emmanuel Macron expressing condolences to the victims and their families and praising those involved in rescue and relief operations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also expressed solidarity with Colombia, describing the disaster as tragic and calling on countries capable of helping to support the affected population.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Italy was closely following developments and stood with the victims, their families and emergency responders.

Ecuador Offers Specialized Rescue Team

Colombia’s neighboring country Ecuador has offered immediate assistance. President Daniel Noboa said Ecuador was ready to deploy a specialized Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team consisting of 47 rescue personnel, trained dogs and essential equipment.

The team would be capable of operating for several days and could be sent to Colombia depending on the country’s requirements.

US Says It Is Ready to Help

The United States has also said it is closely monitoring the situation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that Washington was prepared to assist Colombia as it responds to the disaster.

US assistance is part of a broader international response as Colombia deals with the immediate challenges of rescue, medical care and damage assessment. The US has separately pledged $15.5 million in aid, according to reports.

Death Toll Could Change as Rescue Operations Continue

With rescue teams still searching collapsed structures, officials warn that the casualty figures may change. The latest reports have put the death toll at at least 111, while hundreds of people have been reported injured or missing in different affected areas.

For Colombia, the immediate priority remains clear: find survivors, reach those trapped under the rubble, provide emergency medical assistance and deliver relief to families devastated by the earthquake.