Rescue teams are tirelessly searching for survivors in western Colombia following a devastating earthquake that has claimed over 250 lives, as estimated by local authorities. The 7.4-magnitude quake, the strongest to hit the country in decades, wreaked havoc in Colombia’s coffee-growing region, causing buildings to collapse and leaving many trapped under debris.

In the most severely impacted areas, rescuers are working around the clock using heavy machinery and even their hands to rescue those still trapped. The focus is on saving lives, ensuring the prompt arrival of rescue teams, and providing essential medical assistance, according to Interior Minister Rodrigo Lara.

Official reports indicated 126 confirmed deaths and 1,495 injuries by Monday night, but local estimates on Tuesday suggest the toll could be as high as 254 as rescue operations continue. Nearly 5,000 homes were damaged, and numerous buildings collapsed, displacing hundreds of families.

In Cali, residents faced the destruction as parts of their homes crumbled, forcing them to cook outdoors and prepare for an extended period away from their dwellings. Meanwhile, in Pereira, whole neighborhoods lay in ruins, with volunteers forming human chains to aid in rescue efforts.

The earthquake caused significant disruptions to infrastructure, leading to the closure of six airports and damage to numerous roads. Essential services such as electricity, water, and healthcare remain severely impacted, hampering rescue and relief efforts.

International aid is pouring in to assist the affected regions, with the United States and the Inter-American Development Bank pledging financial support for emergency relief and reconstruction. However, with communication still limited in the worst-hit areas, authorities warn that it may take days to fully assess the extent of the damage and the final death toll.