Colombia Earthquake: Death Toll Rises to 111 as State of Emergency Declared; Residents Fear Returning Home

At least 111 people have died after a powerful earthquake struck western Colombia, triggering widespread destruction and prompting the government to declare a state of emergency as rescue teams continue searching for survivors. The 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck on Monday near San José del Palmar in the department of Chocó. Strong tremors were felt across large parts of the country, including major cities such as Cali, Pereira, Armenia and Manizales. Buildings were damaged, roads were affected and emergency services were placed under significant pressure as authorities responded to the disaster.

The death toll has continued to rise as rescue workers reach more affected areas. Officials have warned that the number of fatalities could increase further as search teams examine collapsed buildings and other damaged structures. Hundreds of people have also been injured, while many families remain anxious about relatives who have not yet been located.

One of the biggest concerns following the earthquake has been the safety of damaged buildings. Many residents have chosen to remain outdoors rather than return to their homes, fearing that weakened structures could collapse during aftershocks. Streets and open spaces in some affected communities have become temporary gathering points for people who are uncertain whether their houses are safe. The earthquake has caused significant damage to infrastructure and public facilities. Hospitals have also been affected, complicating efforts to treat people injured in the disaster. In Cali, part of a hospital was damaged, forcing emergency personnel to manage patients under difficult circumstances. Other buildings, schools and historic structures in affected cities have also suffered damage.

Manizales was among the cities where the earthquake caused visible destruction, including damage to a historic cathedral. The extent of the damage is still being assessed as emergency crews and local authorities work to inspect buildings and restore essential services. Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a national state of emergency following the earthquake, allowing authorities to mobilise additional resources for rescue, relief and recovery operations. Military personnel, police officers, firefighters and emergency workers have been deployed to assist affected communities.

Security measures have also been increased in some areas as authorities attempt to maintain order while residents remain displaced. Officials are simultaneously working to provide shelter, food and medical assistance to people unable to return to their homes. Rescue operations remain the government's immediate priority. Teams are continuing to search through rubble for people who may still be trapped, while engineers assess whether damaged buildings can be safely entered. The difficult terrain around Chocó and damage to transportation infrastructure could make the relief operation more challenging in some remote communities.

The earthquake has also raised concerns about the longer-term recovery. Once search-and-rescue operations are completed, authorities will face the task of repairing or rebuilding homes, hospitals, schools and other critical infrastructure. For residents who survived the earthquake, the crisis is far from over. Many are still sleeping outside and waiting for officials to determine whether their homes are structurally safe. As rescue teams continue their work, authorities are expected to release further updates on casualties and damage in the coming days. The situation remains fluid, with the death toll and extent of destruction likely to change as emergency teams reach more affected areas and complete their assessments.