Powerful 7.4 Earthquake Strikes Colombia; Shluchim Assist
A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, causing widespread destruction and leaving a growing number of casualties across the region • Read More
A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, causing widespread destruction and leaving a growing number of casualties across the region.
The epicenter was near San José del Palmar in the department of Chocó, roughly 280 kilometers west of Bogotá, at a depth of more than 100 kilometers. The earthquake was felt across much of Colombia and as far away as Ecuador and Panama.
The scale of the disaster continued to emerge throughout the day. The latest reports put the death toll at more than 100, with many others injured, while hundreds of buildings were reported damaged or destroyed in more than 20 municipalities. Rescue teams are continuing to search collapsed structures for people who may still be trapped beneath the rubble.
In Cali, one of the major cities affected by the earthquake, authorities reported extensive structural damage, with dozens of buildings collapsing.
In Quibdó, the capital of Chocó, officials reported fatalities, injuries and significant damage to buildings.
Pereira and other cities in the coffee region also suffered major damage, with Risaralda reporting one of the highest death tolls.
Authorities have declared a state of emergency as rescue and recovery efforts continue. Several airports in the affected region were temporarily closed amid safety concerns, while aftershocks were reported following the main earthquake. Officials have warned residents to remain cautious as rescue operations continue.
Amid the disaster, the Rebbe’s Shluchim throughout Colombia are in contact with members of the local Jewish community, working to ascertain their safety and assist those in need. The International Unit of ZAKA is likewise involved in efforts alongside local Jewish representatives.
The Jewish community in Colombia has maintained close cooperation with ZAKA in previous emergencies, including recent efforts involving the dignified recovery and repatriation of Jewish victims.
As rescue crews continue working through damaged areas and authorities assess the full extent of the destruction, the Shluchim remain focused on the safety and well-being of Jewish community members throughout the affected areas.
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