At least 82 killed, more trapped under rubble after 7.4 magnitude earthquake shakes Colombia

An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 shook Colombia's coastal Choco province at 7:34 a.m. local time on Monday, killing at least 82 people and trapping an unknown number of people underneath rubble.

According to the geological service, the quake struck at a depth of 79 km, with its epicenter near San José del Palmar.

Shortly after the initial tremor, the geological service reported an additional magnitude 4.8 seismic incident in the same region.

Choco province Governor Nubia Carolina Córdoba-Curi stated that many injuries have been reported and there was severe damage to buildings. Córdoba-Curi added that damage assessments are underway.

Videos posted on social media showed parts of Manizales city’s Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica, the tallest cathedral in Colombia, crumbling after the tremor.

Santiago de Cali City Mayor Alejandro Eder stated that at least 20 structures have collapsed, trapping people underneath rubble as emergency services work to get the situation under control.

Colombia's National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) stated that there is no tsunami threat.

The Colombian Geological Service initially reported that the earthquake had a magnitude of 6.6, before revising the official measure to 7.4. Other initial reports also varied in magnitude between 6.6 and 7.4.

Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella convened an emergency meeting with UNGRD to evaluate the damage, review incoming reports, and coordinate emergency response in affected areas, according to a statement released by Espriella’s office.

“Israel is prepared to assist Colombia as much as required,” Saar stated, adding that his “thoughts and prayers are with the Colombian people during this difficult time.”