Rescuers Rush to Locate Survivors as Colombian Earthquake Rescue Window Closes

As the 72-hour mark approached Thursday morning, rescuers in Colombia intensified efforts to locate survivors of a powerful earthquake. The magnitude 7.4 quake, the most severe to hit Colombia this century, resulted in the deaths of 265 people, almost 3,500 injuries, and around 500 missing citizens, according to Colombia’s President, Abelardo de la Espriella. Civilian databases report over 4,100 individuals unaccounted for. Nearly 26,000 families have felt the impact, according to de la Espriella.

In cities like Cali and Pereira, emergency teams worked through the night employing cranes, sniffer dogs, and their hands, taking pauses to listen for survivors. This 72-hour period is critical for finding people alive under collapsed structures. Cali resident Martha Perez expressed her worry as two family members remained trapped. “We will hold on to hope until the very end,” she stated, alongside volunteer rescuer Fernando Loaiza, who reiterated the city’s determination to find more survivors.

Cali Mayor Alejandro Eder confirmed that rescue efforts were entering their final phase. President de la Espriella declared an economic emergency and three days of national mourning, committing to do whatever it takes to rebuild the nation and society. More than 11,000 homes have been destroyed, leaving thousands without shelter.

In Pereira, attention centered on a collapsed bakery where a trapped street vendor might still be alive. Reports of vibrations detected by rescue equipment sparked hope for the survival of Pablo Loaiza. His family gathered near the site, hopeful after signs of possible responses from him under the rubble.

Johanna Sanchez, a volunteer rescuer, reported that so far, three individuals have been saved, with three fatalities confirmed. Many residents have spent nights outside due to damage or fear of aftershocks. Significant structural damage occurred in places like Manizales, affecting landmarks such as the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.

In Roldanillo, people like Yuliana Mendez faced devastation, needing to start over as businesses were destroyed. In chancesaffected cities, the community mobilized to help, supplying water, food, and essential items. Long lines formed at blood donation centers, underscoring a community determined to assist.

The United States allocated $15.5 million in emergency assistance to Colombia, and the European Union pledged two million euros, highlighting international support in the quake’s aftermath.