Colombia earthquake death toll climbs past 280 as hundreds remain missing

Aid groups mobilize as President de la Espriella pledges governmental response

A 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday had killed more than 280 people and destroyed nearly 11,000 dwellings as of Thursday evening, according to authorities. The temblor affected urban centers including Cali and Pereira as well as remote and rugged areas in the department of Chocó.

Thousands more were injured in the disaster. Responders rescued nearly 350 people from the wreckage, but hundreds remained missing, with volunteers and loved ones joining the search for those unaccounted.

Urban centers including Cali and Pereira suffered damage to buildings and infrastructure. The destruction of nearly 11,000 dwellings has left thousands displaced across the affected region, including in remote and rugged areas of Chocó.

Search-and-rescue teams have continued working through the rubble, supported by volunteers and family members of the missing.

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has pledged a robust governmental response to the disaster. The president acknowledged that aid groups would also play important roles in addressing the humanitarian emergency.

Humanitarian organizations have begun mobilizing to help those needing shelter, supplies, and economic assistance. Relief groups are coordinating with Colombian authorities to reach displaced communities across the affected region.

Just weeks after twin earthquakes devastated Venezuela, aid organizations have worked to direct support to survivors in western Colombia.

The death toll has more than doubled since initial reports earlier this week. MSI previously reported that the 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, killing at least 132 people, and that rescue teams were searching for survivors in the days following the disaster.