Colombian President Takes Direct Charge of Earthquake Response

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella is heading to Bogotá to personally coordinate aid for regions affected by a 7.4 magnitude earthquake. “I am heading to Bogotá to focus on the emergency situation facing our country. I have established a unified command centre at the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD),” de la Espriella said via X. “From there, I will personally direct relief efforts for the communities in Choco, the Coffee Axis, and all affected areas.” The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre initially reported a 6.8 magnitude tremor before upgrading its estimate to 7.4, aligning with assessments from US experts. The epicentre was located near the town of San Jose del Palmar in the Choco department. Local authorities reported dozens of collapsed buildings, fatalities, and injuries. Six airports across various regions of Colombia also temporarily suspended operations.