Colombia Earthquake: Death Toll Rises; Mexico Ready to Deploy Aid

At a press conference in Pereira—one of the worst-hit areas—this Tuesday, Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella provided a new update on casualties and structural damage at both national and local levels.

President de la Espriella has confirmed 181 deaths, 2,595 injuries, and 195 missing persons. Additionally, the disaster has resulted in 1,136 homes destroyed, 48 buildings collapsed, 897 educational centers damaged, 85 health centers damaged, 74 roads affected, 377 community centers damaged, 16 aqueducts affected, and 1 airport with runway damage.

A deadly 7.4-magnitude earthquake hit Colombia on Monday morning, August 10, at 7:34 a.m. Its epicenter was located near the municipality of San José del Palmar, in the department of Chocó, at a depth of 96 kilometers, affecting the western part of the country. The tremor was felt in cities such as Bogotá, Cali, Manizales, Pereira, Quibdó, and Medellín, with Pereira, Cali, Quibdó, Manizales, and Armenia suffering the most severe damage.

Mexico Stands Ready to Deploy Humanitarian Aid

Mexico's Secretary of National Defense, General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, announced during President Claudia Sheinbaum's daily press conference that the "Cali Task Force"—similar to the unit that supported Venezuela—is ready for deployment.

The unit would consist of a general, his command staff, and 255 military personnel, including search and rescue specialists, canine teams, and medical staff.

Regarding supplies and equipment, the deployment includes 4 tons of medicines, 8.4 tons of tools and rescue gear, satellite phones, radios, generators, and tents. Additionally, 8,798 food relief kits and 13,890 food baskets will be sent.

General Trevilla Trejo indicated that two Boeing aircraft would be used to transport the task force, while a Hercules C-130 and a Spartan aircraft would transport the humanitarian aid and equipment. He added that they are planned to land at Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport in Cali, Colombia.

President Sheinbaum highlighted that they are currently awaiting an official request from the Colombian government.

Image: Social Media