A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia at 7:34am local time on Monday, killing at least 47 people and causing widespread damage, including a building collapse in Pereira that was captured on video.
Building Collapse in Pereira
Social media footage shows people fleeing as a building crumbles during the quake in Pereira, a city in the coffee-growing region. The video, widely shared online, underscores the sudden and violent nature of the tremor that rattled the area.
The epicentre was located in the western department of Chocó, one of Colombia's poorest regions, which has been particularly hard hit. Rescue teams are working to reach affected communities amid reports of damaged infrastructure and disrupted communications.
Casualties and Response
At least 47 deaths have been confirmed so far, with the number expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue. Local authorities have declared a state of emergency in the worst-affected areas and are coordinating with national agencies to provide aid.
Colombia's President has expressed solidarity with the victims and pledged government support for the recovery effort. Hospitals in the region are treating dozens of injured, while emergency shelters have been set up for those displaced by the quake.
Seismic Context
Colombia sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to seismic activity. The 7.4 magnitude event is among the strongest to hit the country in recent years, raising concerns about building safety standards in urban centres like Pereira.
Geologists are monitoring aftershocks, which could further destabilise weakened structures. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but early reports indicate significant destruction in Chocó and neighbouring areas.
