Colombia Earthquake: Rescuers Race Against Time to Find Survivors
A powerful earthquake has killed at least 254 people in western Colombia. The 7.4 magnitude quake struck on Monday morning. Rescue teams are now urgently searching collapsed buildings. They hope to find survivors and recover bodies. Most of the deaths are in the cities of Pereira and Cali.
In Cali, Colombia’s third-largest city, 95 people died. Forty-five buildings have fully or partly fallen down. Rescuers are digging through the ruins of the Vanessa Building. This seven-story apartment block collapsed completely. About 20 people are believed to be trapped inside.
Volunteers are also helping at the site. They form human chains to move debris away. Rescuers sometimes ask for silence. They listen for any sounds of life from under the rubble. A nearby nursery was also hit when the building fell. Maximiliano Herrera, a volunteer, said about 17 children are trapped. He knows many families of these children.
Luis Saenz, a 22-year-old student, was at home in Cali when the earthquake struck. He said the shaking felt “eternal.” His family quickly ran into the street. Maria Isabel Cumbal, another resident, watched the rescue efforts. She said, “I never thought I would see my city like this.”
The earthquake damaged about 5,000 homes. Many of these homes were completely destroyed. Cali’s mayor, Alejandro Eder, announced a curfew. It runs from 8 PM to 6 AM. This is to stop looting and crime. Cali already has a high crime rate.
President Abelardo de la Espriella visited affected areas. He promised help for the survivors. Firefighters and rescue teams have arrived from other big cities like Bogota. Private companies have also donated heavy machines.
However, some people in other hard-hit towns feel forgotten. Buenaventura, a poorer city, has received less help. Residents there worry that aid will not reach them. Some also say the government’s response has been disorganized.
Rescue workers have not slept since the earthquake. Cristian Nieves, a volunteer, said they have worked all night. Luis Saenz, the student, is also helping. He said, “We are all tired, but we are trying to keep going.”
