Origin: Colombia Declares State of Emergency

Colombia declared a state of emergency in response to a powerful earthquake that killed at least 111 people in the west of the country.

The quake’s epicenter was near San José del Palmar in Chocó, a community of about 4,800 roughly 250 miles west of Bogotá, and shaking was felt across much of Colombia and the wider region.

The emergency declaration activates the national disaster response, unlocking funds and speeding the deployment of rescue teams, medical aid, and security forces to affected areas.

Authorities reported extensive damage, with hundreds of buildings impacted and widespread search-and-rescue and damage assessments underway.

Initial readings of the quake’s strength varied, but authorities put it at magnitude 7.4. The United Nations has offered support as Colombia continues rescue operations and refines casualty and damage totals.

AI-synthesized from multiple reported sources