Colombia earthquake: Death toll crosses 100, rescue teams search for missing

Rescuers race against time

A powerful earthquake of 7.4 magnitude has struck Colombia, killing at least 132 people and leaving scores missing. Rescue teams are now engaged in a frantic search for survivors trapped under collapsed structures, even as aftershocks threaten further damage.

The quake, which hit on Tuesday, sent buildings crumbling and debris raining down on streets, catching many residents off guard. Officials have not yet confirmed the full extent of destruction, but early reports indicated at least two deaths with several others trapped in the immediate aftermath.

Scenes of devastation

Video footage from the affected areas shows multi-storey structures reduced to rubble, with dust clouds engulfing neighbourhoods. Witnesses described people running out of homes and offices as the ground shook violently for several seconds.

Local authorities have deployed emergency response units to the worst-hit districts, but access to some areas remains difficult. The death toll has climbed steadily, jumping from initial figures to over 130 within hours of the disaster, according to the latest updates.

Search operations intensify

Rescue teams, including firefighters, military personnel and volunteers, are using heavy machinery and sniffer dogs to comb through debris. The focus remains on locating the missing, with officials saying the number of unaccounted individuals is still being assessed.

Hospitals in the affected regions have been overwhelmed, treating hundreds of injured people. Emergency shelters have been set up for those left homeless, though many families are still waiting for news of loved ones.

Government response

The Colombian government has declared a state of emergency in the affected zones and is coordinating relief efforts. President has urged citizens to remain calm while promising swift action to support survivors.

International aid agencies have offered assistance, and neighbouring countries have pledged support. However, the immediate priority is clearing debris and reaching remote villages that may have been cut off by landslides triggered by the quake.

Impact on infrastructure

Early assessments indicate significant damage to roads, bridges and power lines, hampering rescue operations. Communication networks have also been disrupted in several areas, complicating coordination among response teams.

Engineers are being drafted in to evaluate the structural integrity of damaged buildings, even as experts warn of potential secondary hazards. Seismologists have recorded multiple aftershocks, though none as strong as the initial tremor.

The full scale of the tragedy is yet to emerge, with officials cautioning that the death toll could rise further as search efforts continue. For now, the nation is united in grief and determination to save every possible life.

As rescue operations enter their second day, attention will turn to relief distribution and the long road to rebuilding. The coming hours are critical for those still trapped, and the world watches closely as Colombia battles this catastrophe.