Colombia Earthquake: More Than 3,000 Missing As Death Toll Rises

BOGOTÁ, Colombia — Rescue teams are searching for more than 3,000 people reported missing following a powerful earthquake that struck western Colombia, killing more than 100 people and leaving widespread destruction.

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck on Monday, with authorities reporting that hundreds of people have been killed and thousands of buildings damaged or destroyed as emergency crews continue their search for survivors.

Rescue operations resumed Tuesday in several affected areas, with emergency workers, soldiers and volunteers using heavy equipment and trained search dogs to comb through collapsed structures.

Among the areas affected are Pereira, Cali, Chocó and Manizales, where residents have been dealing with damaged homes, disrupted services and blocked roads.

Authorities have declared an emergency and introduced measures, including curfews and traffic restrictions, to support rescue and relief efforts.

More than 1,600 buildings have reportedly been damaged or destroyed, while officials warn that the death toll could rise as rescue teams reach areas that remain difficult to access.

The United States has pledged US$15.5 million in assistance to support relief operations as Colombia continues to assess the scale of the disaster.

Search-and-rescue efforts are expected to continue as emergency personnel work to locate those still missing and provide assistance to communities affected by the earthquake.

At Least 47 Dead After 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Western Colombia