Colombia, Aug 12.- More than 24 hours after the earthquake that shook Colombia this Monday morning, the Colombian Association of Capital Cities reports a preliminary toll of 169 deaths and 668 injuries across the country, with 165 of the deaths recorded in capital cities.
These cities concentrate 97.6% of the fatalities. According to the association, Cali records 85 deaths; Pereira, 66; Quibdó, 9; and Manizales, 5. In the capitals, 165 collapsed buildings have also been recorded, as search and rescue efforts continue.
The association warns that the figures remain preliminary and may vary, as territorial authorities and response agencies remain in the affected areas. Meanwhile, the entity maintains permanent contact with local administrations to identify priority needs and support the response in the most affected cities.
A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday morning, with the epicenter near San José del Palmar (Chocó). It was felt in several cities across the country and in neighboring nations, causing significant damage in Cali, Manizales, and Quibdó.
Local authorities continue rescue operations in search of survivors in various affected areas of the country.
(Taken from Cubadebate)
