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More than 3,000 are reported missing in Colombia on Tuesday following a massive 7.4-magnitude earthquake, prompting a desperate search for survivors and a pledge from the Trump administration of $15.5 million in relief.
Videos and photos emerged from Colombia showing first responders combing through rubble and debris, looking for any signs of life. Mayors and governors from Cali, Pereira, Chocó and Manizalez said Tuesday at least 179 people had died in those four areas, while the federal government, which last updated its estimates in the hours after earthquake hit Monday, has said at least 111 died, 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,” the State Department said on X.
It added that “the Trump Administration is committing $15.5 million in funding for emergency shelter, food, protection, and earthquake assessments.”
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Around 1,600 buildings across Colombia have been reported damaged or collapsed, and more than 3,000 people are missing, the AP reported.
President Abelardo De la Espriella, who was inaugurated just days earlier, traveled to Chocó’s capital, Quibdó, on Monday night and announced he was mobilizing “the entire military and police apparatus” to respond, deploying engineers, rescue workers and search dogs.
“Chocó will never again be the ‘land of the forgotten,’” he said.
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The U.S. Geological Survey said the earthquake was centered in San José del Palmar, a town located within the western Chocó region, which borders the Pacific Ocean.
In a post on X, De la Espriella, added that, “The National Government stands with the people of Chocó.”
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“Immediate economic resources and humanitarian aid have already been allocated to support the more than 1,400 affected families and individuals,” he added. “The injured and those requiring priority medical attention are being transferred to Medellín with all available hospital capacity.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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