Colombia Earthquake: Death Toll Surges, 2,700 Missing

Colombian authorities reported that 224 people were killed in the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck the country yesterday. More than 2,700 are listed as missing, most in the Valle del Cauca department. President Abelardo de la Espriella promised additional security forces due to fears of looting. Israel, through Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, offered assistance.

Local authorities in Colombia reported today (Tuesday) that 224 people have been killed so far as a result of the powerful earthquake that struck the country yesterday. According to reports, more than 2,700 people are listed as missing. According to President Abelardo de la Espriella, 188 people are listed as missing in the Valle del Cauca department in the west of the country. In the area, 35 people were killed and about 700 were injured. Five thousand homes were damaged or collapsed as a result of the quake, including three hospitals. According to the president, the main concern of the authorities is the missing. He promised additional security forces to the city due to fears of looting in affected areas. The earthquake, of magnitude 7.4, occurred yesterday in the afternoon hours (Israel time). Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced yesterday that he offered Israeli assistance to his Colombian counterpart. "We are following the reports of the earthquake with concern; Israel is ready to assist Colombia as needed," he wrote.