Earthquake response strains Colombia’s new government and rescuers as they race against the clock
Summary
A strong 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit western Colombia, killing at least 181 people and injuring over 2,500. The new Colombian government, led by President Abelardo de la Espriella, is struggling to manage rescue efforts and provide aid in areas also affected by poverty and armed conflict.Key Facts
- The earthquake struck cities including Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Quibdo.
- At least 181 people died and about 2,595 were injured; around 195 to 4,000 remain missing.
- Rescue teams are working urgently to find survivors within the critical first 48 to 72 hours after the quake.
- Some survivors, including a baby and a woman, were pulled alive from rubble.
- President Abelardo de la Espriella declared an emergency to speed up emergency funding and recovery efforts.
- The response is complicated by long-standing issues like poverty and ongoing armed conflicts causing displacement.
- A 2016 peace accord has helped aid groups maintain a presence in conflict zones, improving delivery of emergency aid.
- Aid organizations such as the Norwegian Refugee Council and the U.N. are involved in the humanitarian response.
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