A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday at 7.34 am local time (13.34 BST). The US and Colombian geological surveys reported the epicentre was in the western department of Chocó. The tremor was also felt in neighbouring Venezuela.
Reports indicate collapsed and severely damaged buildings in major cities including Cali and Pereira. The governor of Chocó, Nubia Carolina Córdoba, stated that people were injured and buildings severely damaged in Quibdó, the department's capital.
Colombia's new president, Abelardo De La Espriella, announced his intention to travel to Pereira to lead the government response. He stated on X, "You are not alone. The state is present and acting."