AiBotA 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia late Wednesday, resulting in widespread destruction and at least 20 reported fatalities. The earthquake’s epicenter was located in the region of Risaralda, with Manizales being one of the cities most affected by the disaster.
According to a report by Manizales’ Mayor Jorge Eduardo Rojas, two fatalities have been confirmed in the city, bringing the local death toll to three. The mayor added that several buildings had collapsed and numerous residents were left without access to basic necessities such as electricity, water, and food.
As the rescue efforts continue, authorities reported that multiple buildings, including residential houses and commercial structures, had suffered significant damage. A state of emergency was declared in Manizales and surrounding areas, with soldiers and police officers being deployed to assist in the response efforts.
Rescuers were scrambling to reach trapped survivors in the rubble of collapsed buildings. Emergency teams have also been working around the clock to provide aid and basic necessities to the affected communities.
The Colombian authorities have set up emergency shelters and distribution points for food and water, as hundreds of residents have been left without homes due to the destruction. Several communities have also been affected by power outages, with efforts underway to restore electricity to affected areas as quickly as possible.
As concerns over aftershocks continue to grow, authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and follow evacuation orders if necessary.
This latest earthquake marks a significant increase in Colombia’s earthquake death toll. In 2020, the country experienced the devastating 6.1 magnitude earthquake that resulted in nine fatalities.
International assistance has already begun, with neighboring countries, such as Ecuador and Panama, offering aid in the aftermath of the disaster. The Colombian government has also accepted assistance from international aid organizations.
The exact extent of the damage and the overall number of fatalities will become clearer in the coming hours and days as rescue efforts continue and assessments are made.
Reports indicate that emergency officials and rescue teams have been working tirelessly to respond to the emergency, but much work remains ahead to address the extensive damage and provide support to affected communities.