BOGOTA — A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday morning, leaving a path of catastrophic destruction in its wake. According to official updates released by the Colombian government, the death toll has mounted to at least 132 people, with more than 570 others reported injured as emergency crews continue searching through collapsed masonry and debris.
The seismic event occurred at 7:34 AM local time, striking at a depth of 96 kilometers. According to the Colombian Geological Service, the epicenter was located near San Jose del Palmar in the western department of Chocó. The violent shaking was felt across vast swathes of the country and extended into neighboring Ecuador.
National State of Disaster Declared
In a press address from Bogota, Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella revealed the widespread severity of the impact. At least 1,575 homes have been completely destroyed, leaving thousands displaced. Critical infrastructure across western regions suffered extensive damage, including key airport facilities where commercial flight operations at six terminals have been indefinitely suspended.
In response to the escalating humanitarian emergency, President de la Espriella officially declared a state of national disaster. The directive mobilizes all national emergency resources and allows government ministries to collaborate directly with department capitals and local mayors to streamline search-and-rescue efforts, deliver vital aid, and establish temporary shelters.
International Community Rallies Behind Colombia
As emergency teams work around the clock, international leaders have stepped forward with expressions of solidarity and immediate relief pledges.
United States: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the Trump Administration is committing $15.5 million in emergency relief funds. The aid will directly target immediate needs, including emergency housing, food security, vulnerable population protection, and rapid structural assessments.
Ecuador: Neighboring President Daniel Noboa Azin pledged immediate operational assistance, putting Ecuador's Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team on standby. The response package includes 47 specialized rescuers, sniffer dogs, and self-sufficient deployment equipment capable of operating for seven days.
France: French President Emmanuel Macron offered condolences on social media, reaffirming France's friendship and readiness to assist affected families and frontline responders.
Ukraine: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered deep condolences to victims' families, noting that shockwaves also reached Ecuador, while calling on the international community to step up relief support.
Italy: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her nation's solidarity, stating that Italy is closely following recovery operations and standing alongside rescue personnel on the ground.
Search and rescue operations remain active across Chocó, Valle del Cauca, and surrounding departments as authorities continue to clear heavy debris and assess structural damage in remote urban and rural centers.
