A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday morning, killing at least 132 people and injuring more than 480 others. Buildings collapsed in several major cities, leaving rescuers searching through rubble for survivors.
The earthquake happened at 7:34 a.m. local time. Its epicenter was in Chocó province, and it was 103 kilometers deep. The deep quake helped prevent even worse damage near the source. But strong shaking spread for hundreds of miles across western Colombia.
The city of Pereira suffered some of the worst damage. A building collapsed in the city's main square, Plaza Bolívar, in front of frightened crowds. Local authorities reported at least 40 deaths and 65 collapsed buildings in Pereira's metropolitan area. Rescue teams were trying to reach people trapped inside 15 of the buildings.
In Cali, about 160 kilometers south of Pereira, at least 32 buildings collapsed. Local residents ran into the streets in their pajamas. Walls cracked, and dust filled the air. To maintain order and stop potential looting, local officials placed curfews on several cities and sent extra security forces to patrol the streets.
Colombia's newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella, declared a national state of emergency. The move was meant to speed up aid and rescue work. International leaders, including representatives from the United States, the European Union, and El Salvador, have offered financial aid, satellite tracking support, and rescue teams. They want to help the country recover.