Colombia Earthquake Kills 111, Shakira Urges Unity
A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, killing at least 111 people and injuring 87 others, according to President Abelardo de la Espriella. The earthquake, which had its epicentre near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region, caused widespread damage across western Colombia, with buildings collapsing in cities including Pereira, Cali, Quibdó, and Manizales. Colombian pop star Shakira has offered her support to those affected, saying her heart is with everyone who felt the tremor and urging people to remain alert and follow instructions from authorities.
Shakira’s message comes as emergency teams and communities across Colombia work to respond to the disaster and support families affected by the earthquake. The singer also expressed sympathy for families facing moments of anguish after the quake. In a message on X, Shakira said Colombians have a strong tradition of coming together during difficult times and urged people to embrace and stay tuned to the instructions so they can help as soon as possible.
The US Geological Survey said the earthquake occurred at a depth of about 107 kilometres, and tremors were also felt in neighbouring Ecuador and Panama, although little damage was reported there. The Colombian Geological Service described the earthquake as the strongest recorded in the country in more than a decade. President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a state of emergency following the earthquake, saying the measure would help speed up the government’s response and recovery efforts.
The earthquake struck in Colombia’s Pacific region, part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone known for frequent seismic activity. Rescue teams continued searching damaged areas as authorities assessed the extent of the destruction and monitored for aftershocks. The remote and mountainous terrain in parts of Chocó could complicate relief efforts, with some communities difficult to reach by road.
This disaster follows other significant seismic events in the region, such as the Venezuela quakes that have resulted in thousands of deaths. The international community, including the UAE, has expressed solidarity with Colombia in the wake of this disaster.
