The death toll from the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia has risen to 169. More than 700 people were injured, while missing-person reports have been filed for approximately 2,700 people. With search and rescue operations continuing in the affected areas, authorities fear the death toll could rise as people may still be trapped beneath the rubble.
The Colombian Association of Capital Cities (Asocapitales) announced that the number of people killed in the earthquake that struck the country yesterday had risen to 169.
Red alerts were declared in the cities of Pereira, Cali, Quibdo, Manizales and Armenia, which were among the areas hardest hit by the earthquake. Curfews have been imposed in some areas for security reasons, while search and rescue teams continue their operations around the clock.
The highest number of fatalities was recorded in Pereira, where 60 people lost their lives. The filing of missing-person reports for approximately 2,700 people has heightened concerns in the region.
Roads Collapsed in Cali, 10 Hospitals Out of Service
In Cali, the country’s third-largest city, several roads collapsed due to the earthquake, while 10 hospitals were reportedly unable to operate. Search and rescue teams dispatched from the capital Bogota and Medellin have been sent to the region to support ongoing operations.
Quibdo and Manizales also experienced disruptions to electricity, water, telecommunications and transportation services following the earthquake.
Curfew Imposed in Cali
Cali Mayor Alejandro Eder announced that a curfew had been imposed in the city to ensure public safety and prevent looting.
Eder said the decision was also aimed at allowing emergency response and search and rescue teams to carry out their operations more safely and efficiently.
Earthquake Felt in Three Other Countries
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the epicenter of the earthquake was located approximately 5 kilometers east of the town of San Jose del Palmar in western Colombia.
The 7.4-magnitude earthquake was felt not only in Colombia but also in various parts of Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama.
According to Venezuela-based Telesur, the earthquake caused partial damage to the exterior facades of some buildings in Venezuela. A cathedral and an airport were also reportedly damaged by the earthquake.