Deadly 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes San José del Palmar, Colombia, Leaving 71 Dead
Severe Destruction Reported Across Multiple Regions
A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake devastated western Colombia on Monday morning, resulting in at least 71 confirmed fatalities and widespread destruction across several municipalities, according to the Association of Capital Cities of Colombia.
The earthquake's epicenter was located in San José del Palmar, Chocó, prompting Colombia's newly inaugurated President Abelardo De La Espriella to declare a national disaster. This declaration aims to facilitate emergency response and recovery efforts in the hardest-hit areas.
Impact in Valle del Cauca and Surrounding Areas
In Valle del Cauca, approximately 254 miles south of Chocó, Governor Dilian Francisca Toro reported 27 deaths, including three children. From her position at the University Hospital of the Valley, Toro noted that the facility suffered “structural collapses,” which hindered rescue operations. Emergency responders are currently working to assess the situation, as rescue and evacuation efforts continue.
Governor Nubia Carolina Córdoba-Curi of Chocó confirmed severe damages in the capital city Quibdó, located about 188 miles northwest of the epicenter. “We are already conducting a damage assessment to issue the first official report,” she wrote on social media.
As of 10:43 a.m., Córdoba-Curi reported four deaths and 69 injuries in Chocó. Meanwhile, other local leaders are reporting casualties in nearby cities: Pereira’s Mayor Mauricio Salazar confirmed 18 deaths, and Manizales’ Mayor Jorge Eduardo Rojas reported two fatalities.
Emergency Response and Community Impact
Alejandro Eder, the mayor of Cali, indicated that at least 20 buildings collapsed in the city, with individuals believed to be trapped inside. Emergency response teams have set up tents to coordinate rescue efforts. Local resident Luis Angel Sarrio expressed his concerns about the devastating impact of the earthquake in his community, emphasizing the loss of life and the emotional toll on his family.
The civil aviation authority reported that several airports, including those in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, and Buenaventura, are affected, leading to the suspension of flights as assessments of structural damages are conducted.
Government and International Response
President De La Espriella stated he has taken personal charge of the emergency response operations in San José del Palmar and directed the establishment of a Unified Command Post to aid those affected. He is awaiting a detailed report on the current situation and urgent needs for recovery efforts.
This earthquake comes on the heels of devastating seismic activity in Venezuela in late June, which saw two major earthquakes that resulted in over 5,000 deaths and considerable destruction. As Colombia faces the brunt of this new disaster, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the American administration is closely monitoring the situation and stands ready to provide support.
Current Status and Continuing Investigations
The full extent of damages and casualties remains unclear as ongoing rescue operations continue. Local governments are prioritizing assessments and recovery efforts, highlighting the immediate need for assistance in the affected areas.