© V. E. Salazar Consequences of an earthquake in the city of Cali, Colombia. UN ready to support Colombia after earthquake that killed dozens of people Humanitarian assistance
A magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Colombia on Monday killed at least 111 people, including children. The earthquake caused landslides and caused severe damage to homes and infrastructure. Rescuers continue to work – people remain under the rubble.
UN teams in Colombia are in contact with the country’s authorities and the country’s disaster risk management agency.
Speaking at a press briefing in New York today, UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq said the Organization is monitoring developments and stands ready to provide Colombia with the support it needs.
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this earthquakes. We are ready to provide the necessary assistance,” Haq said.
The earthquake occurred at approximately 7:34 a.m. local time. Its epicenter was near San José del Palmar in the Department of Choco, near the border with the Department of Valle del Cauca.
The tremors were felt across large areas of Colombia, as well as in neighboring countries, including Panama, Ecuador and Venezuela.
The death toll rises as search and rescue operations continue. Preliminary reports indicate that homes and other buildings have collapsed in several communities, with people still trapped under the rubble.
Hak also noted that limited communications in rural areas make it difficult to assess the full impact of the earthquake, so the full extent of the damage remains unknown.
Those most affected areas
The mayor of the city of Pereira, located about 56 km from the epicenter of the disaster, reported 18 deaths. Rescuers continue to search for survivors.
In Cali, the country’s third-largest city, authorities reported multiple landslides trapping people and requested additional assistance for rescue efforts.
Transport infrastructure was also damaged. Several airports in western Colombia suspended operations to review security conditions.
Evacuation orders were even issued in the capital Bogota, located about 400 km east of San Jose del Palmar.
The tragedy occurred just three days after President Abelardo took office de la Espriella. The government has activated emergency response mechanisms and continues to assess damage and needs in affected areas.
UN stands ready to assist
The UN system in Colombia said its teams will continue to liaise with national agencies as the scale of humanitarian efforts becomes clearer needs.
The World Food Program (WFP) said it had resources to support government and national emergency response efforts.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said it was in close contact with national authorities.
International organization IOM is also monitoring the situation and stands ready to support the response, including assistance to people who have been forced to flee their homes.
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said it is assessing the impact of the earthquake and stands ready to provide assistance in coordination with authorities and other partners.