Colombia quake death toll tops 250 as rescuers search for survivors

Key facts

• A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia.
• The death toll has exceeded 250 people.
• Nearly 2,600 people have been injured.
• Rescuers are searching for survivors in collapsed buildings.
• Thousands of homes have been damaged, leaving people homeless.
• The Torres del Limonar building in Cali is among over 50 destroyed structures.
• The earthquake's epicenter was in the Chocó department.
• Cities including Cali and Pereira were affected.
• President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a state of emergency.
• The government is deploying resources to assist affected communities.

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia, resulting in a significant loss of life and widespread destruction. Initial reports indicate that at least 250 people have died, with one source stating 181 fatalities and another reporting 132. The number of injured has reached nearly 2,600, with one report specifying over 570.