A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake has struck Bogota western Colombia, killing at least 111 people and injuring dozens more as collapsing buildings and damaged infrastructure left communities facing a major emergency.
The earthquake struck early Monday, August 10, with its epicentre near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region, about 400 kilometres west of the capital, Bogotá. The tremor occurred at a depth of roughly 107 kilometres and was felt across large parts of Colombia, including the cities of Cali, Pereira, Manizales and Quibdó. Shaking was also reported in neighbouring countries.
The scale of the destruction became apparent shortly after the earthquake. Buildings collapsed in several communities, with residents and emergency workers searching through piles of concrete, bricks and other debris for people who may have been trapped. At least 87 people were reported injured, while authorities warned that the casualty figures could change as rescue teams reach more affected areas.
Some of the hardest-hit areas are in Colombia's western departments, where difficult terrain and remote communities have complicated emergency operations. Reports indicate that more than 20 municipalities were affected, while dozens of buildings have collapsed or suffered serious damage. In Manizales, part of a prominent cathedral was damaged, while Pereira and Cali also reported significant structural destruction.
Authorities have moved quickly to coordinate the response. President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a national emergency and said rescuing people trapped beneath rubble was the government's immediate priority. Emergency personnel, local authorities and other response teams have been deployed to affected communities as assessments of the damage continue.
The earthquake has also disrupted transportation. Several airports in affected cities suspended operations because of damage and safety concerns, adding another challenge for rescue and relief teams trying to reach isolated communities. Authorities are also monitoring the situation for possible aftershocks, which can create additional risks for damaged structures and people involved in rescue operations.
International assistance has begun to emerge as the extent of the disaster becomes clearer. Countries including the United States and Mexico, along with international organisations, have offered support to Colombia as it confronts the crisis.
For families across the affected regions, however, the immediate concern remains finding loved ones and securing safe shelter. Rescue operations are expected to continue as authorities inspect damaged buildings, clear roads and assess the needs of communities affected by the earthquake.
With the death toll already at 111, Colombia is facing one of its most serious earthquake emergencies in years. Officials have urged residents to remain cautious as emergency teams work through the destruction and continue searching for survivors.