Death toll reaches 164 after magnitude 7.4 earthquake hits western Colombia

Emergency crews in Colombia continue rescue operations following a magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the western municipality of San José del Palmar, causing extensive structural damage and triggering a national state of emergency. The tremor, recorded at a depth of roughly 107 kilometres, was also felt across neighbouring Ecuador.

Casualty figures have risen steadily as emergency responders access heavily impacted zones. While early reports recorded 20 deaths, subsequent estimates climbed past 132 fatalities and hundreds of injuries, with later updates confirming at least 164 dead.

Military personnel and emergency workers remain focused on searching for survivors feared trapped under collapsed buildings. Meanwhile, regional and national authorities are coordinating temporary housing and essential aid for displaced residents across affected areas.

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