Death toll rises above 70 after powerful earthquake strikes Colombia

BOGOTA, Colombia: More than 70 people have been killed after a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Colombia, causing widespread destruction and collapsing several buildings.

According to international media reports, rescue teams are continuing operations as bodies are being recovered from the rubble of collapsed structures, with authorities warning that the death toll could rise further.

The earthquake was centred near San Jose del Palmar in Colombia’s Choco province, with strong tremors felt across major cities including Cali, Pereira, Manizales and the capital Bogota.

Western Colombia suffered the worst damage, with several buildings severely affected in Cali. Heavy casualties were reported in Pereira, while part of a historic cathedral in Manizales collapsed due to the quake.

Residents in several areas were evacuated from buildings as a precaution, while flights were temporarily suspended at some regional airports to allow safety inspections of runways, terminals and other facilities.

Tremors were also felt in neighbouring Ecuador, though no major damage was immediately reported there. In Bogota, residents evacuated buildings as a precaution, but authorities reported limited damage.

Colombian authorities have launched search and rescue operations and deployed emergency teams to affected areas. Rescue workers are searching for people trapped under debris while assessing damage to buildings, roads, power systems and other infrastructure.

Geological authorities said the earthquake was among the strongest recorded in Colombia in the past decade. Several aftershocks have also been reported, prompting officials to advise residents to remain cautious.

Authorities said a clearer assessment of casualties and property damage would be available after rescue operations are completed and remote areas are fully surveyed.