More than 110 people have been killed after a powerful earthquake struck western Colombia, collapsing buildings and damaging key infrastructure as rescue teams searched for survivors trapped beneath debris.
The U.S. Geological Survey measured the earthquake at magnitude 7.4, with its epicenter located about 107 kilometers (66 miles) below the surface. Colombia’s Geological Service described it as the strongest earthquake recorded in the country during the 21st century.
President Abelardo De La Espriella declared a national state of emergency as authorities mobilized resources for rescue and relief operations. In a national address, he said the government had deployed its available capabilities to assist affected communities and stressed that finding people trapped under rubble was the immediate priority.
The president initially put the national death toll at 111. Later, however, he provided figures specifically for Valle del Cauca province, reporting 35 fatalities and around 700 injuries there. Local media reports have suggested a higher national death toll of 132, although the source of that figure remains unclear.
The earthquake also struck shortly after De La Espriella took office, creating an early major challenge for his administration. Rescue and emergency teams continued working in affected areas as authorities assessed the scale of the destruction.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed sorrow over the tragic loss of lives and widespread devastation caused by the powerful earthquake in Colombia.
“On behalf of the people and Government of Pakistan, I extend my heartfelt condolences to President Abelardo De La Espriella, the people of Colombia, and all the families who have lost their loved ones,” the prime minister wrote on X.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured and all those affected by this tragedy. Pakistan stands in solidarity with the people of Colombia in this difficult hour,” he added.
