UPDATE: Colombia earthquake death toll rises to 169; more than 900 injured

BOGOTA – The death toll from the powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia on Monday, August 10, continues to rise. According to the latest figures from Asocapitales, 169 people have now been confirmed dead, while more than 900 have been reported injured.

The scale of the material damage is also becoming clearer. At least 1,575 homes have been affected, 61 buildings have collapsed and six airports have sustained damage following the quake, whose epicenter was located near San José del Palmar in the department of Chocó.

Pereira remains one of the hardest-hit areas. The latest information from the city points to 72 deaths, 37 people missing and 15 people still trapped beneath the rubble. More than 260 rescue workers are operating in the area as authorities prepare to intensify search-and-rescue efforts.

Emergency measures in Pereira include the suspension of classes and the introduction of a curfew. Several shelters and humanitarian aid collection centers have also been opened.

In Cali, rescue teams managed to pull a 35-year-old man alive from the rubble. Authorities said he suffered only minor injuries and is out of danger.

President Abelardo De La Espriella has declared a national disaster, while rescue operations continue in several cities. Venezuela has also offered to send rescue personnel and humanitarian assistance to Colombia.