Race Against Time in Colombia: 265 Dead and Nearly 500 Missing in Earthquake

The 7.4-magnitude earthquake in Colombia has so far claimed 265 victims, with nearly 500 people still missing. The epicenter was near San José del Palmar in Chocó department, and the cities of Cali and Pereira were severely hit. The new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, declared an economic emergency and established a reconstruction fund. Rescue teams from Mexico and Peru have already arrived, and other countries, including the United States, Brazil, and Israel, have offered aid.

A 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Colombia on Monday morning, with its epicenter near San José del Palmar in the Chocó department. The death toll has risen to 265, and nearly 500 people are still listed as missing. The cities of Cali and Pereira suffered particularly severe damage: in Pereira at least 83 people were killed, and in Cali 74. Thousands of homes were destroyed or damaged, roads were blocked, and public buildings, schools, and hospitals were affected. President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office just days before the disaster, declared an economic emergency and established a special reconstruction fund. "This is undoubtedly a tragedy of enormous proportions," he said in a speech to the nation, emphasizing that efforts are focused on the missing. The government is mobilizing all national capabilities and relying on international aid that has begun to arrive. The disaster has affected at least 25,872 families, comprising more than 53,000 people. According to data released on Wednesday, 11,347 homes were destroyed and 140 buildings collapsed. Several cities have imposed a nighttime curfew for fear of looting. Rescue teams from Mexico and Peru have already arrived, and other countries, including the United States, Brazil, and Israel, have offered aid. Authorities are assessing damage to roads and ports in the west of the country and warn that the number of casualties may rise.