BOGOTA — The death toll from a magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday has risen to 265, according to the latest official figures, as rescue teams continued searching damaged buildings for survivors.
President Abelardo de la Espriella’s government said nearly 500 people remained missing and more than 3,700 had been injured in the disaster. The quake caused extensive damage in western cities including Cali and Pereira, with buildings and critical infrastructure among those affected.
Rescue operations have entered a critical phase, with authorities shifting some efforts toward removing debris while continuing searches at sites where people could still be trapped, Reuters reported. More than 150 aftershocks have been recorded, complicating operations and creating additional risks for rescue workers.
The government has declared an economic emergency and said it would establish a reconstruction fund to support rebuilding homes and public infrastructure damaged by the quake. International rescue teams and aid have also been deployed to assist Colombian authorities.
Authorities have not said that the search operation is complete, and casualty and missing-person figures may still be revised as teams assess damaged areas and reconcile reports. The latest confirmed official death toll stands at 265.
