Earthquake in Western Colombia Causes Extensive Damage and Casualties

A severe earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday morning, shaking the nation and prompting evacuations in Bogotá and other cities. Authorities reported at least 20 fatalities as rescue teams comb through the wreckage of destroyed structures and establish temporary shelters, cautioning residents about potential aftershocks.

The United States Geological Survey recorded the quake at 7.4 magnitude, occurring at 7:34 a.m. local time. The epicenter was located approximately 3 miles east of San José del Palmar, a small town in the rural Chocó region, which suffered substantial damage. Videos from major cities like Pereira, Manizales, and Cali show partially collapsed buildings.

Pereira and Other Affected Areas

Pereira, a city around 35 miles from the epicenter, reported 18 deaths, according to Mayor Mauricio Salazar. In Manizales, the mayor, Jorge Eduardo Rojas, confirmed two deaths and announced the opening of the city’s coliseum for displaced individuals seeking shelter.

The epicenter was situated roughly 150 miles west of Bogotá, 100 miles south of Medellín, and about 100 miles north of Cali. Cali, Colombia’s third-largest city with 2 million residents, saw at least 20 buildings collapse, trapping people inside. Mayor Alejandro Eder urged residents to evacuate if they notice any visible damages.

Nubia Carolina Córdoba-Curi, the governor of Chocó, mentioned injuries and significant damage in Quibdó, the regional capital. Nearby Valle del Cauca’s governor coordinated with relief agencies to assess the havoc.

Government Response

Colombia’s new president, Abelardo De La Espriella, declared on social media that he is leading the emergency response. He emphasized that the state is actively involved, ensuring citizens they are not alone in these trying times.

His presidency began on Friday, and he has initiated the establishment of a unified command post and requested detailed reports from the disaster management agency to evaluate urgent needs. An in-person visit to Pereira is on the agenda to support affected citizens and oversee government interventions.

Operations temporarily halted at seven airports, including those in Cali, Pereira, and Quibdó, as authorities inspect earthquake-related damages. President Espriella communicated through social media, appearing airborne en route to Bogotá, aiming to convene an emergency coordination center at the national disaster agency.

Manizales and Structural Concerns

In Manizales, the mayor implemented temporary shelter arrangements at the sports stadium. He warned residents against entering potentially compromised buildings and advised minimizing travel to facilitate emergency operations. Further cautions were issued to prevent panic-buying and resource shortages.

Mayor Jorge Eduardo Rojas confirmed two casualties in Manizales, with extensive damage to over a dozen buildings and homes. He relayed on social media that problems like gas and electrical leaks are being resolved, and the city’s cable-car system is suspended due to safety concerns. A team of emergency personnel and engineers are actively assessing damages throughout the city.

Pereira’s airport witnessed damage as parts of its roof collapsed, as evidenced by footage aired by Caracol, a Colombian broadcaster.

Impact in Bogotá and Surrounding Areas

The tremor was felt strongly in Bogotá, 150 miles east of the epicenter, where buildings swayed. Councilman Samir Abisambra shared video evidence of a compromised support column in a parking garage, highlighting the quake’s reach.

In Cali, Mayor Alejandro Eder reported numerous building collapses, resulting in individuals being trapped. He encouraged residents to inspect buildings for structural integrity and vacate if necessary, urging public calm and cooperation.

Photo credit: Santiago Saldarriaga/Associated Press