7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Colombia, Killing at Least 26 and Causing Widespread Damage

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the moment magnitude scale struck Colombia on Monday, centered in the Chocó region along the Pacific coast in the west of the country. The tremor was felt as far east as the border with Venezuela. At least 26 people have died, with numerous injuries and reports of people trapped under collapsed buildings. The cities of Cali, Manizales, Pereira, and others reported significant structural damage, with around 20 buildings collapsing in Cali alone.

The governor of Chocó and local mayors confirmed casualties and extensive damage, including in Pereira where 18 fatalities were reported. The Colombian Civil Aviation Authority announced damage to airports in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago, and Buenaventura, leading to the suspension of air traffic at these terminals. Despite the severity, no tsunami warning was issued.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who recently visited Colombia to meet the incoming president, expressed concern and offered Israeli assistance to Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar. Sa’ar stated on social media that Israel is ready to provide aid as needed and extended his thoughts and prayers to the Colombian people during this difficult time.

This earthquake follows two recent strong quakes in neighboring Venezuela, measuring 7.5 and 7.2, which caused building collapses and prompted a state of emergency there. The Colombian quake has compounded regional seismic challenges and triggered emergency responses across affected areas.