A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia in South America, killing 132 people and injuring more than 570. Buildings have collapsed one after another, and President Delaesprieja (デラエスプリエジャ) has declared a state of emergency.
A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia in South America on the morning of the 10th, killing at least 132 people and injuring more than 570. The epicenter was near San José del Palmar in western Chocó Department, at a depth of approximately 110 km and about 240 km west of the capital, Bogotá. There was no risk of a tsunami, and the Japanese Embassy said it had received no reports of Japanese nationals being affected.
Buildings have collapsed one after another in the disaster area, and many people are believed to be trapped beneath the rubble. Rescue and search operations are continuing. As part of the government’s response, President Delaesprieja (デラエスプリエジャ) declared a state of emergency.
The damage extended to Chocó and neighboring departments. According to local media, more than 60 buildings collapsed in Pereira, the capital of western Risaralda Department. About 20 roads suffered damage, including cracks in the road surface, while 6 airports were affected and commercial flights have been suspended.
The government announced that it had established an emergency response headquarters and would take all necessary measures to support the disaster-hit areas and strengthen rescue and search operations.