According to RTVE and El País, at least 132 people have died and over 500 have been injured following a 7,4-magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia at a depth of 107 kilometers, as recorded by the United States Geological Survey. The tremor hit around 07:34 local time with an epicenter in San José del Palmar, a municipality along the Pacific coast situated between Medellín, Bogotá, and Cali.
Emergency Response and National Declaration
President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a national state of emergency following the disaster, according to RTVE. During a national address before traveling to Chocó and Cali, the president stated that the primary priority is rescuing people trapped beneath rubble. The Colombian Army has deployed more than 180 rescue workers across five pelotons equipped with drones, thermal cameras, and motion sensors, originating from military bases in Bogotá and Tolemaida, per RTVE reports.
Regional Casualties and Infrastructure Damage
Casualties and infrastructural impacts vary widely by region, according to municipal and presidential updates cited by RTVE. Pereira, the capital of Risaralda, reports 60 fatalities as the hardest-hit region. Valle del Cauca records 35 deaths, Quibdó in Chocó accounts for 13 victims, and Manizales in Caldas reports at least three. In Cali alone, local authorities recorded 35 deaths, approximately 700 injuries, 188 missing persons, three collapsed hospitals, and nearly 5,000 damaged or collapsed homes.
Pro Tip: Staying Informed During Aftershocks
Monitor official channels such as the Colombian Geological Service and local emergency management offices for verified updates on structural safety and transport restrictions.
International Aid Offers
Venezuela has offered to send rescue workers and humanitarian aid to assist with the recovery effort, according to statements reported by RTVE. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez stated that brigades are on standby awaiting formal authorization from Colombian authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the magnitude and depth of the Colombia earthquake?
The earthquake measured 7,4 in magnitude with a depth of 107 kilometers, according to data from the United States Geological Survey cited by RTVE.
Where was the epicenter located?
The epicenter was located in San José del Palmar, a municipality situated along the Pacific coast of Colombia between Medellín, Bogotá, and Cali, per RTVE reporting.
How many casualties have been officially reported?
According to partial totals from Asocapitales and regional updates reported by RTVE, at least 132 people have died and over 500 have been injured.
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