Colombia Quake Triggers State of Emergency

A 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, causing widespread damage in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, and Cali. The disaster produced collapsed buildings and structural damage, with authorities reporting death tolls ranging from dozens to well over a hundred as rescue work continues. Video shows the collapse of the Catedral Basílica Metropolitana Nuestra Señora del Rosario in Manizales, among other damaged structures. A national state of emergency was declared as President Abelardo de la Espriella pledged full government support, with flights suspended for safety checks and crews mobilized to hard-hit areas. The quake was felt across Colombia and into Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama, with officials warning of possible aftershocks and ongoing relief needs. Reconstruction and relief efforts are under way across departments, with authorities coordinating food, medical aid, and shelter.