132 people killed in earthquake in Colombia, declared national disaster

Bogota (Colombia). A massive earthquake has caused widespread destruction in Colombia, prompting a national emergency declaration. At least 132 people have been killed so far. Colombia was hit by a 7.4-magnitude earthquake at 7:34 am and another 4.8-magnitude quake at 8:18 am. The epicenter of both earthquakes was in the western state of Choco, in the San Jose del Palmar municipality. According to Colombia's Geological Service, the first earthquake had a depth of 98 kilometers and the second had a depth of 88 kilometers.

The Bogota Post and ABC News report that local residents and rescue workers are searching through the rubble of collapsed buildings. President Abilarco De La Espriella has declared a national emergency after widespread destruction in several cities. The president said that at least 132 people have been killed and 572 injured in the disaster. The most affected areas include the cities of Pereira and Cali, where several deaths have been confirmed.

The president stated that at least 61 buildings have collapsed due to the earthquake, and more than 1,600 homes have been damaged or destroyed. He added that dozens of health centers, community centers, and roads have also been damaged. It is reported that seven airports in the cities of Armenia, Cali, Manizales, Pereira, Quibdo, Buenaventura, and Cartago have suspended flight operations after the earthquake.

Authorities said there have been no reports of building collapses in the capital, Bogota. The earthquake was also felt in neighboring countries, including Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama. The disaster comes after a 3.9-magnitude earthquake struck Venezuela's Santa Ana del Tachira municipality at 12:57 am on August 9.