Nearly 30 people have lost their lives after a powerful earthquake hit western Colombia on Monday.
As per CNN, a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck the South American nation.
The quake trapped residents under debris, causing severe damage, injuring many, which prompted immediate evacuation from their homes as far as the capital of Bogotá.
Nearly 30 dead due to catastrophic earthquake
The epicenter was located in San José del Palmar, in the department of Chocó, nearly 280 kilometers west of Bogotá, at a depth of 107 kilometers at 7:34 a.m. (local time, 8:34 a.m. Miami time), the USGS reported.
The catastrophic earthquake left cities across the west of the country, inclduing Pereira, Quibdo, Cali and Manizales destroyed, and residents picking through the rubble of collapsed buildings, with rescue efforts continuing to intensify.
It comes less than two months after twin quakes devastated parts of Venezuela, killing more than 6,100 people.
World leaders stand With Colombia after devastating earthquake
Following the devastating event, leaders across the world pledged support for the suffering individuals.
United States:
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the Trump Administration is “closely monitoring” the earthquake, adding that the US “stands ready to support the people of Colombia” and its leadership.
Venezuela:
The Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado also expressed support, offering “solidarity and prayers” to Colombia after the quake on Monday.
El Salvador:
The El Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele stated the government is “ready to provide immediate support with our rescue teams, medical personnel, paramedics, supplies, or any other assistance” in a post on X.
