Colombia Earthquake Prompts Search for Survivors and U.S. Aid

More than 3,000 people remain missing in Colombia following a significant 7.4-magnitude earthquake. The natural disaster spurred a widespread search for survivors and a commitment from the Trump administration to provide $15.5 million in aid.

First responders were seen combing through rubble and debris, eager for signs of life in videos and photos that emerged from the scene. Local officials reported at least 179 fatalities in the regions of Cali, Pereira, Chocó, and Manizales. The federal estimates, updated shortly after the earthquake occurred on Monday, listed at least 111 deaths according to The Associated Press.

“We are united in prayer with the Colombian people and stand ready to support President Abelardo De la Espriella and his government as they assess the needs on the ground,” stated the State Department on X.

The statement confirmed that “the Trump Administration is committing $15.5 million in funding for emergency shelter, food, protection, and earthquake assessments.”

Approximately 1,600 buildings in Colombia were reported damaged or collapsed, and over 3,000 were missing, the AP noted. Images captured the aftermath, depicting a collapsed structure in Manizales and others across affected areas.

President Abelardo De la Espriella, recently inaugurated, traveled to Quibdó, Chocó’s capital, on Monday night. He announced the full mobilization of military and police resources, deploying engineers, rescue workers, and search dogs to assist in the relief efforts.

“Chocó will never again be the ‘land of the forgotten,’” he declared.

The earthquake’s epicenter was identified by the U.S. Geological Survey as San José del Palmar, situated in the western Chocó region along the Pacific Ocean.

In another address shared on X, De la Espriella assured, “The National Government stands with the people of Chocó.” He emphasized that “Immediate economic resources and humanitarian aid have been allocated to support the over 1,400 affected families and individuals.” According to his statement, those injured or in urgent need of medical attention were being transferred to Medellín, utilizing all available hospital resources.