Watch: Powerful 7.4‑Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Colombia, Crumbling Buildings

A devastating 7.4‑magnitude quake struck western Colombia early Tuesday, shaking homes and offices and causing buildings to collapse. Local officials report 111 fatalities and dozens more injured, while search teams comb rubble for survivors.

The tremor was felt across the country, reaching Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama. Emergency services are coordinating evacuations, medical care and strategic rescue operations amid widespread damage.

Colombia’s seismic history and dense population underscore the need for robust disaster preparedness. Scientists are studying the rupture to update risk models, while governments plan to strengthen building codes and emergency protocols for the future.