Bogota, Colombia – Colombian President Abelardo de Espirilla announced that initial estimates indicate the devastating economic losses from the powerful earthquake that struck the country have reached approximately 30 trillion pesos (US$9.58 billion). The 7.4-magnitude earthquake caused extensive structural damage across a wide area of western Colombia. The damage extended from the vital port city of Buenaventura on the Pacific coast through the renowned coffee-growing region. Major western cities such as Cali and Pereira were also affected. This massive natural disaster is the first major crisis faced by President de Espirilla. He had taken office just days before the tragedy and was thus forced to lead the comprehensive national relief efforts and oversee the urgent reconstruction operations.
Hopes for survival dwindled as rescue teams shifted to clearing rubble.
In a tragic development on the ground, hopes of finding more survivors under the rubble of destroyed buildings have dwindled considerably. This comes as the disaster response enters an even darker phase after the crucial first three days. Rescue teams have been forced to narrow their search operations and focus entirely on clearing debris in most of the affected areas, particularly in Cali, the country’s third-largest city. Meanwhile, grieving families in the disaster zones anxiously await any news of their missing loved ones.
A horrific toll of victims and missing persons
The devastating earthquake that struck last Monday caused widespread collapses of residential buildings. It also severely damaged homes, schools, and hospitals, sending thousands of residents fleeing in terror into the streets. On Wednesday afternoon, authorities announced that the death toll had risen to at least 265, while some 500 people remained missing, raising fears that the number of fatalities could climb further.
