Colombia earthquake death toll rises to 169 as rescuers search for survivors

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake, which occurred on Monday morning in the Chocó department, a poor region on the Pacific coast, has resulted in at least 169 deaths and destroyed dozens of buildings. The provisional toll from Asocapitales, an organization of Colombia's major cities, also reports over 570 injured. President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office three days prior, announced a state of emergency.

In Pereira, located in the "coffee region," dozens of deaths have been reported. Residents in affected areas describe a scene of panic and despair, with many evacuating their homes. In Cali, one of the most affected cities, professional and impromptu rescuers are working to clear rubble.

Nelson Moreno, for example, is helping to rescue a friend trapped under collapsed buildings, with his friend's father and baby found injured but alive. According to Asocapitales, 86 buildings have collapsed, and seven airports have suspended operations due to earthquake damage. President de la Espriella stated that 188 people are missing in Cali alone.

The Colombian geological service has recorded 47 aftershocks. The earthquake's epicenter was near San José del Palmare in Chocó. International solidarity messages have poured in, with several Latin American countries, Israel, Spain, and France offering support.

The European