A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake has struck Colombia, killing at least 111 people and injuring dozens in what has become the first major crisis facing newly inaugurated President Abelardo de la Espriella just days after he assumed office.
The devastating earthquake struck on Monday, causing widespread destruction and leaving dozens of people trapped beneath collapsed buildings. The disaster comes only days after President de la Espriella was sworn into office on Friday.
Speaking from Colombia’s disaster management agency in Bogotá, the country’s capital, President de la Espriella confirmed that 111 people had died and 87 others were injured following the powerful earthquake.
Authorities also reported that 61 buildings collapsed as emergency responders continued search-and-rescue operations in affected areas.
The Colombian government has mobilised emergency services and disaster response teams to assess the extent of the damage, rescue survivors and provide assistance to communities affected by the earthquake.
The earthquake represents a major test for President Abelardo de la Espriella’s new administration as the government works to coordinate rescue efforts and respond to the growing humanitarian needs caused by the natural disaster.
Officials are expected to continue monitoring affected areas for additional casualties and structural damage as emergency operations remain underway.
Source: newsthemegh.com