Colombia earthquake death toll rises above 160 as rescue operations continue

Search and rescue operations are ongoing across western Colombia after a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the region, leaving widespread destruction and prompting a national state of emergency. First responders and military personnel are working to clear debris and locate survivors trapped beneath collapsed structures.

Casualty counts have risen sharply as emergency teams access heavily damaged communities. While initial reports cited dozens of fatalities, Digi24 and Ziarul de Gardă placed the toll at at least 132 dead and over 500 injured, while Moldova1 later reported confirmed deaths had reached at least 164. Officials warn that casualties are likely to increase further as hundreds remain unaccounted for. Authorities are also coordinating temporary shelter and humanitarian aid for displaced residents across affected municipalities.

Sources: Adevărul, Digi24, HotNews, Moldova1, Ziarul de Gardă.