The death toll continues to climb after a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, killing at least 111 people and injuring 87 others.
The tremor hit the Pacific coast province of Chocó, causing severe damage and collapsing 61 buildings across multiple cities.
In response to the tragedy, newly inaugurated President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a state of national disaster.
The emergency measure allows the government to bypass bureaucratic hurdles and quickly mobilise funds and state resources to the hardest-hit regions.
Addressing the nation, President de la Espriella stressed that search and rescue operations are the highest priority.
He said his government had deployed all of its capabilities “to protect lives, assist affected communities and deliver aid wherever it is needed”
“The first priority is rescuing the people trapped under the rubble,” he said.
Messages of national solidarity are continuing to pour in, including from Colombian Pop star Shakira.
She shared a message of support on X, declaring her heart is with “everyone who felt this earthquake today”.
“In times like these, we Colombians know how to come together and support one another,” she wrote.
“All my strength and love for my homeland. Let’s embrace tightly and stay tuned to the instructions so we can help as soon as possible.”
