A powerful earthquake has struck western Colombia, with reports of collapsed and severely damaged buildings in major cities including Cali and Pereira. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing The Guardian.

The US and Colombian geological surveys reported that a 7.4 magnitude earthquake had struck at 7.34 am local time (13.34 BST) on Monday, with its epicentre in the western department of Chocó. It was also felt in neighbouring Venezuela.

Western Colombia appears to have suffered the most serious damage, with social media videos showing citizens searching for victims in rubble in Cali and a woman sprinting from a building as it collapsed in Manizales, the capital of Caldas department.

The governor of Chocó, Nubia Carolina Córdoba, said people had been injured and buildings severely damaged in the department’s capital, Quibdó.

Colombia’s new president, Abelardo De La Espriella, announced he would travel to Pereira, the capital of Risaralda department, to lead the government response. “You are not alone. The state is present and acting,” De la Espriella, who took office on Friday, wrote on X.

The earthquake comes just weeks after Venezuela was struck by twin earthquakes that devastated the country’s northern coast, killing more than 6,000 people.

Impact of the earthquake

Although the epicentre was in the Chocó department, the impact was felt in neighbouring regions. In Cali, building collapses were significant, and Pereira also reported severe damage.

Rescue operations are ongoing, with local authorities assessing the situation in affected areas. The president's trip to Pereira demonstrates the government's swift response to the natural disaster.

Expert opinion

Seismologists are studying additional data on the earthquake's strength and depth. Preliminary reports suggest the tremors were caused by underground fault lines.

Earthquakes are common in Colombia's history, but such powerful tremors are rare. In past years, earthquakes have resulted in many deaths in the country.

Casualties and affected people

The exact number of casualties is not yet known, but the governor of Chocó confirmed injuries. Rescuers continue to search for people trapped under debris.

Local hospitals are preparing to receive the injured. The government is organizing humanitarian aid to affected areas.

International reaction

Neighbouring countries and international organizations have expressed readiness to help Colombia. Since tremors were also felt in Venezuela, monitoring is underway there as well.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said it is monitoring the situation and ready to provide assistance if needed.

Conclusion

This earthquake is a serious test for Colombia. The government and local authorities are making every effort to eliminate the consequences of the disaster. The president's prompt actions and the work of rescuers are aimed at helping those affected.

The full impact of the earthquake has not yet been assessed, but preliminary data suggests the death toll could rise. Rescue and recovery efforts are likely to take several weeks.