More than 100 people killed in powerful earthquake in Colombia

More than 100 people killed in powerful earthquake in Colombia

A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Colombia, killing at least 132 people and injuring 570 others.

The earthquake occurred at 07:34 on August 10 near the city of San José del Palmar in western Colombia, at a depth of 103 kilometers. Several aftershocks were also recorded following the main quake.

More than 1,500 homes were damaged in Pereira, Cali and Manizales, while around 60 buildings collapsed. In addition, 18 hospitals and 52 school buildings were damaged.

Rescue operations are ongoing, so the death toll may rise.

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a nationwide state of emergency and ordered all available resources to be mobilized for rescue efforts.

The United States also announced that it would provide $15.5 million in emergency assistance to Colombia to help deal with the aftermath of the earthquake.