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Colombia Earthquake Live Updates: More Than 70 Reported Dead in 7.4 Magnitude Disaster
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- The earthquake in Colombia has caused at least 80 deaths across multiple departments, with Risaralda hardest hit, particularly in its capital Pereira where 18 people died.
- Pereira, located just 35 miles from the epicenter, along with cities like Cali, which saw at least 20 building collapses, experienced significant damage prompting evacuation orders.
- The quake led to temporary suspension of airport operations in seven cities, including Quibdó, Cali, and Pereira, as authorities assess the damage.
- Colombia's new president, Abelardo De La Espriella, who took office recently, has taken personal charge of emergency response efforts, signaling strong government action and international support.
- This earthquake is the strongest recorded in Colombia in the past decade and follows recent devastating quakes in Venezuela, highlighting regional seismic vulnerability.
