Colombia counts over 500 dead and missing in earthquake
In Colombia, it was reported today, Thursday, that at least 319 people have died as a result of the earthquake that struck the country, while 260 people remain missing. Authorities confirmed 4,469 injuries and 364 successful rescues.
In Colombia, it was reported today, Thursday, that at least 319 people have died as a result of the earthquake that struck the country, while 260 people remain missing. In a statement published on the social network X, authorities provided the following update:
"319 people were killed, 4,469 were injured, 260 are still missing, and 364 people were rescued."
It was further stated that 549 animals were also rescued.
The latest situation assessment by the authorities showed that the earthquake destroyed about 31,000 homes, while 151,995 buildings were damaged. The earthquake, which had a magnitude of 7.4 on the Richter scale, struck near the city of San José del Palmar in the Chocó department in western Colombia on August 10. According to official estimates, the disaster affected 15 departments across the country.
Last week, Colombia experienced its strongest earthquake in decades. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly for many days with no end in sight. The President of Colombia, Abelardo de la Asprilla, announced the deployment of 1,000 security personnel following reports of looting and declared a night curfew in the main cities affected by the disaster.
