Colombia earthquake kills at least 20 as buildings collapse

At least 20 people have died after a 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia at 7.34am local time on Monday, according to US and Colombian geological surveys. The epicentre was in the western department of Chocó, and the earthquake severely damaged or collapsed buildings in cities including Pereira, Manizales and Cali.

Authorities reported 18 deaths in Pereira, the capital of Risaralda department, and at least two in Manizales, the capital of Caldas. The earthquake was also felt in neighbouring Venezuela, which was still dealing with a deadly double earthquake on 24 June.

Damage reported across western Colombia

Manizales mayor Jorge Eduardo Rojas Giraldo said at least 12 buildings and 20 homes in the city had been partially or completely destroyed. Videos showed people searching rubble in Cali, a woman fleeing as a building collapsed in Manizales and part of San José church in Pereira giving way.

Cali mayor Alejandro Eder said at least 20 buildings had collapsed in the city and that some people might be trapped inside, although he did not provide a number. Chocó governor Nubia Carolina Córdoba said people were injured and buildings were severely damaged in Quibdó, the department’s capital.

Officials warn residents about aftershocks

Rojas Giraldo urged residents to remain outside buildings for at least a while because of the risk of aftershocks. He told people not to re-enter buildings yet.

Eder urged Cali residents to check for structural damage and leave if they felt unsafe or saw very large cracks. He said authorities were mapping the damage to protect lives and determine whether rescue operations were needed.

Airports damaged as government response begins

Aviation authorities said airports in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Cartago, Armenia and Buenaventura had sustained damage.

President Abelardo De La Espriella said he would travel to Pereira to lead the government response. His office said he had ordered an immediate meeting of the national disaster management committee and that the government was monitoring the situation.