health
Colombia earthquake death toll rises as frantic search for survivors continues
Tons of aid from regional partners began to roll into Colombia on Wednesday, as the search for survivors in the rubble of a powerful earthquake grew more desperate after the temblor razed buildings, buckled roads and crushed cars.
TL;DR
- A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia's west, killing at least 265 people and impacting over 25,800 families.
- Nearly 500 people are reported missing, though civilian databases suggest a much higher number.
- Rescue operations are ongoing in hard-hit cities like Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Quibdo, with the first 48-72 hours considered crucial for survivor retrieval.
- Regional partners and international organizations, including the U.S., Mexico, and the Vatican, are sending aid.
- The earthquake's impact is compounded by existing poverty and civil warfare in some affected regions, particularly in Choco.
- Colombia's geological service has recorded 130 aftershocks since the main quake.
- A benefit concert is planned in Miami for victims of this earthquake and previous ones in Venezuela.