Over 100 killed as 7.4 magnitude quake hits western Colombia

A 7.4‑magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday morning, killing more than 100 people and causing extensive damage to buildings in the major cities of Cali and Pereira. The tremor, recorded at 7:34 a.m. local time (13:34 BST), was centered in the department of Chocó, according to the United States Geological Survey and Colombia’s Instituto Geofísico.

The quake produced widespread collapse and severe structural damage across several municipalities, with emergency services reporting dozens of buildings rendered unsafe. In addition to the casualties and infrastructure losses, the shock was felt in neighbouring Venezuela, which is still recovering from a double earthquake that occurred on 24 June. Authorities have called for continued assistance and are assessing the full extent of the damage.

Officials are coordinating rescue and relief operations while assessing the structural integrity of remaining buildings. The government has urged residents to remain vigilant as aftershocks continue to be reported, and international aid agencies are preparing to provide additional support to the affected regions.