Colombia Earthquake Deaths Exceed 160, State of Emergency Declared

A powerful earthquake in Colombia has resulted in more than 160 fatalities, with rescue teams continuing to search for individuals trapped beneath debris. The Colombian government has declared a state of emergency to coordinate the response to the widespread destruction.

The initial tremor was followed by a series of substantial aftershocks throughout Tuesday, further complicating rescue operations and exacerbating structural damage. Emergency services, supported by military personnel, are focusing their efforts on areas worst affected by the seismic activity, where collapsed buildings and landslides have hindered access.

International aid offers have begun to materialise, as the scale of the humanitarian crisis becomes apparent. However, local authorities are prioritising immediate search and rescue, alongside providing urgent medical care to the hundreds injured. The full extent of the damage to infrastructure and housing is still being assessed, with fears that the death toll could yet rise.