Colombia Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 254 as Rescue Operations Continue

A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake has killed at least 254 people in Colombia, with rescue teams continuing to search through collapsed buildings for survivors.

The earthquake, described as one of the country’s most devastating disasters this century, struck Colombia’s coffee-growing region and severely damaged homes, apartment buildings, schools and health facilities.

The worst-hit cities include Pereira and Cali, where 101 and 95 deaths were respectively reported. Rescue workers have been using cranes, excavators and their bare hands to remove rubble.

In Cali, rescuers managed to pull a woman alive from the ruins of the Torres del Limonar apartment complex, raising hopes that more survivors could still be found.

Thousands of residents have been left homeless, while damaged roads, airports and communication networks have complicated emergency response efforts. Some communities in Chocó, close to the epicentre, remain without electricity, water, gas and essential medical supplies.

The earthquake has also triggered more than 100 aftershocks, forcing many survivors to remain outside their homes for safety.

Colombian authorities warned that the full extent of the destruction and the final death toll may take several days to determine because communication remains unreliable in some affected areas.

President Abelardo De La Espriella has visited affected communities and pledged financial assistance to families who lost their homes, while officials continue assessing damage to infrastructure and agricultural areas.

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