Powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake strikes western Colombia

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, causing widespread damage and a rising death toll across several cities. According to geological services, the quake's epicenter was located near San José del Palmar in the Chocó department, at a depth of roughly 80 to 100 kilometers.

Tremors were felt across the country, including in the capital, Bogotá. Emergency officials and local authorities reported significant structural destruction, with at least 20 buildings collapsing in the city of Cali alone, leaving residents trapped under debris. Reported casualty numbers varied as rescue operations continued, with initial estimates ranging from at least 47 to over 80 fatalities. Search and rescue efforts remain ongoing across the affected regions.

Sources: Avaz, CDM (Cafe del Montenegro), HRT Vijesti, Index, Klix.