More Than 3,000 Missing After Colombia Quake

More than 3,000 people are missing after a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Colombia. Rescue teams are searching damaged areas for survivors as authorities work to assess the full impact.

The earthquake struck Monday and centered near San José del Palmar in the western Chocó region. The U.S. Geological Survey identified the area as the earthquake’s center.

Officials in Cali, Pereira, Chocó and Manizales reported at least 179 deaths across the affected areas. However, Colombia’s federal government has confirmed at least 111 deaths in its latest update.

Meanwhile, first responders continue to search through rubble and debris. Teams are using rescue equipment and search dogs to look for people who may remain trapped.

Colombia’s newly inaugurated president, Abelardo De la Espriella, traveled to Quibdó, the capital of Chocó, after the earthquake. He ordered the military and police to join the emergency response.

In addition, engineers and rescue workers are helping authorities reach affected communities. The government says more than 1,400 families and individuals have suffered from the disaster.

Medical teams are also treating people injured in the earthquake. Authorities are transferring those who need urgent care to Medellín. Hospitals there are making space for patients from the affected areas.

The disaster has also drawn support from the United States. The Trump administration has pledged $15.5 million in emergency assistance to Colombia.

According to the U.S. State Department, the funding will help provide emergency shelter, food and protection. It will also support earthquake assessments as officials continue to evaluate the damage.

For now, rescue teams remain focused on finding missing people. Authorities are also working to provide medical care and other emergency assistance to affected families.

As search operations continue, officials are expected to provide more information about the number of missing people, deaths and damage.