Rescuers search rubble in Cali after Colombia's strongest quake kills over 130

Rescuers in Cali, Colombia, are combing through debris after the nation’s strongest earthquake of the century struck the region, killing more than 130 people, injuring hundreds, and leaving many still missing. The magnitude‑7.2 tremor hit the southwestern part of the country early Tuesday, causing widespread structural collapse in densely populated neighborhoods and prompting an immediate emergency response from local authorities and national disaster agencies.

Search and rescue teams from the Colombian National Police, the military, the Red Cross and international aid groups have been working around the clock to locate survivors trapped under rubble, using canine units, listening devices and heavy‑equipment excavators. As of the latest reports, officials confirm over 300 individuals have been hospitalized, while the number of missing persons remains uncertain. Authorities say the operation will continue for several days, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to provide medical care, temporary shelter and support to the affected communities.