The severe 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday has claimed at least 22 lives, according to the mayors of the affected cities of Pereira, Manizales, and Buenaventura. The US Geological Survey (USGS) estimates a 35 percent probability that between 100 and 1,000 people may have died. In response, Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has convened an emergency task force and announced his intention to travel to Pereira to support the victims. Infrastructure has been heavily impacted: six airports, including those in Pereira, Manizales, and Buenaventura, have been closed. The Colombian aviation authority, Aerocivil, stated that flight operations have been suspended for safety reasons until the structural damage can be properly assessed. Additionally, roads near Cali and Manizales have been shut down due to landslides.
Mixed
