Monday’s 7.4‑magnitude earthquake in western Colombia kills more than 240

Monday’s 7.4‑magnitude earthquake in western Colombia has killed more than 240 people as rescuers scramble to locate survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings. On Tuesday, emergency workers pulled a 32‑year‑old woman alive from the rubble, yet many others remain missing.^[1]

Rescue Operations

Rescue crews are racing against time to reach survivors, working through the wreckage that has brought down homes and infrastructure in several cities, including Cali, one of the quake’s hardest‑hit areas.^[1]

Casualties and Missing

The death toll has risen to more than 200 and recent updates indicate it has now surpassed 240. Despite efforts, the exact number of missing persons remains unknown.^[1]

Political Context

The disaster poses Colombia’s first major challenge for President Abelardo de la Espriella, who was inaugurated last Friday and has now been thrust into crisis management amid the tragedy.^[1]