7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Colombia as Death Toll Reaches 164
World
A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia, causing severe damage across several cities. As of August 11, at least 164 people have been confirmed dead, rescue operations are continuing, and authorities are warning of possible further tremors.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake occurred at a depth of about 107 kilometers. Cali, Pereira and Manizales were among the worst-affected cities. Parts of a hospital in Cali collapsed, forcing hundreds of patients to be treated outside. Residential buildings were destroyed in Pereira, while one of the towers of a historic cathedral in Manizales was damaged.
Authorities reported 85 deaths in Cali, 66 in Pereira and 13 in the department of Choco, the area closest to the epicenter. Rescue workers, soldiers, police officers and volunteers are continuing to search collapsed buildings for survivors.
The earthquake also disrupted operations at several regional airports. Curfews were imposed in Cali and Pereira following reports of possible looting. Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella ordered an additional 1,000 security personnel to be deployed to Cali.
The Colombian Geological Service recorded 21 aftershocks and warned that further tremors were possible. Reuters reported that the earthquake was the strongest recorded in Colombia in the 21st century.
Authorities reported 85 deaths in Cali, 66 in Pereira and 13 in the department of Choco, the area closest to the epicenter. Rescue workers, soldiers, police officers and volunteers are continuing to search collapsed buildings for survivors.
The earthquake also disrupted operations at several regional airports. Curfews were imposed in Cali and Pereira following reports of possible looting. Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella ordered an additional 1,000 security personnel to be deployed to Cali.
The Colombian Geological Service recorded 21 aftershocks and warned that further tremors were possible. Reuters reported that the earthquake was the strongest recorded in Colombia in the 21st century.
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