More than 3,000 people are reported missing in Colombia following a massive 7.4-magnitude earthquake. This has prompted a desperate search for survivors and a commitment from the Trump administration of $15.5 million in relief.
Images and videos from Colombia reveal first responders searching through rubble for signs of life. Officials from Cali, Pereira, Chocó, and Manizales note at least 179 fatalities in these areas. The federal government, with its last update soon after the earthquake struck, reports at least 111 deaths, as stated by The Associated Press.
“We are united in prayer with the Colombian people and stand ready to support President Abelardo De la Espriella and his government as they assess the needs on the ground,” the State Department said on X.
The statement added the Trump administration’s commitment to $15.5 million in funding for emergency shelter, food, protection, and earthquake assessments.
Around 1,600 buildings have been reported damaged or collapsed, according to the AP. Over 3,000 individuals remain missing. President Abelardo De la Espriella, recently inaugurated, visited Quibdó, Chocó’s capital, and announced the mobilization of the military and police to aid in the response. Engineers, rescue workers, and search dogs are being deployed.
“Chocó will never again be the ‘land of the forgotten,’” De la Espriella stated.
The earthquake, centered in San José del Palmar within the western Chocó region, was reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. De la Espriella also declared the government’s support for the people of Chocó through a post on X.
Immediate economic resources and humanitarian aid are allocated for over 1,400 affected families. Injured individuals requiring urgent medical care are being transferred to Medellín, utilizing all available hospital facilities.