A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake has devastated western Colombia, killing at least 111 people and injuring dozens as rescue teams continue searching through collapsed buildings and rubble.
The earthquake struck near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region, with strong shaking felt across much of western Colombia.
Authorities say around 1,600 buildings have been damaged, including at least 61 structures that completely collapsed. Major damage has been reported in cities including Cali, Pereira, Quibdó and Manizales.
Search-and-rescue teams, joined by local residents, have been clearing debris in areas where people may still be trapped. Thousands were initially reported missing, particularly around Cali and Pereira, as communications and access remained difficult in some affected areas.
President Abelardo de la Espriella has declared a national emergency, allowing authorities to mobilize resources more quickly for rescue, medical assistance and relief operations.
The earthquake is being described as Colombia's strongest this century, adding to the scale of the disaster.
Emergency crews remain on the ground, searching damaged buildings, treating the injured and assessing infrastructure as authorities warn that further aftershocks could complicate rescue and recovery efforts.
For communities across western Colombia, the immediate priority remains finding survivors and delivering urgent assistance to those who have lost homes and loved ones.
