Earthquake in Colombia: death toll approaches 200

The death toll from a powerful earthquake in western Colombia has approached 200. According to the latest data, around 180 victims were reported, while rescue operations are ongoing and the final scale of destruction is still being determined.

A magnitude 7.4 earthquake occurred on August 10. The western regions of the country were hardest hit, including the cities of Cali, Pereira, and Manizales. Rescuers continue to clear the rubble of destroyed buildings in search of survivors.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the death toll is already estimated at nearly 200 people. More than 1,300 people were injured, and over 200 are missing. In the Risaralda department alone, 67 deaths have been confirmed.

The situation is complicated by aftershocks. On Tuesday, a series of aftershocks was recorded in Colombia as emergency services tried to reach people still trapped under the debris. In some areas, infrastructure damage is hampering the work of emergency services.

The epicenter of the mainshock was in western Colombia, near the Chocó department. The shaking was felt at a significant distance from the epicenter, and severe destruction has been recorded in several of the country's major cities.

Additional rescue units have been dispatched to the worst-affected areas. Search operations continue around the clock, so the number of dead and injured may rise as rubble is cleared and information comes in from hard-to-reach areas.

Based on: BBC, The Wall Street Journal