7.4 magnitude earthquake in Colombia causes destruction and fatalities

A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia on Monday (10), causing significant destruction in various cities, including Cali and Pereira. According to information from the Colombian Geological Service, this is the strongest earthquake to occur in the country in the last decade.

The mayor of Cali, Alejandro Eder, reported that at least 20 buildings collapsed in the city and that there are people trapped under the rubble, although the exact number of missing persons has not yet been confirmed. Videos posted on social media show residents searching for survivors among the debris.

Additionally, Matecaña International Airport in Pereira sustained structural damage, with part of the roof collapsing and the terminal area covered with fallen materials. This information was documented by a local journalist who shared videos of the destruction.

In Manaus, the capital of Amazonas, the Amazonas Military Fire Brigade (CBMAM) received over nine calls for inspections of buildings, including an evacuation of the Palácio do Comércio building. Teams conducted inspections in various areas of the city, such as the Aleixo and Adrianópolis neighborhoods.

Residents of Mâncio Lima in Acre also reported feeling a slight tremor, with videos showing pool water sloshing due to the seismic event. The tremor in Colombia had its epicenter in San José del Palmar, approximately 230 km from Bogotá, and the earthquake's depth was recorded at 110 km.

According to Reuters, in addition to structural damage, the earthquake resulted in more than 70 deaths and many injuries in various regions of Colombia. Images of damage to crops and infrastructure were also shared, highlighting the severity of the situation. There is currently no additional information on the authorities' response.