The death toll from a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday has risen to 132, while more than 570 people have been injured, according to the latest reports.

The disaster has triggered a massive search-and-rescue operation as emergency crews continue to look for people who may remain trapped beneath collapsed buildings.

The earthquake, which struck on August 10, was centered near San José del Palmar in the department of Chocó, about 400 kilometers west of the capital, Bogotá. The U.S. Geological Survey placed the quake at a depth of roughly 107 kilometers. The Colombian Geological Service and international agencies described the event as the strongest earthquake recorded in the country in the 21st century.

The tremor caused extensive damage across several cities, including Cali, Pereira, Quibdó and Manizales. More than 1,600 buildings were reported damaged, with at least 61 structures completely collapsing, according to early assessments. Authorities have warned that the scale of destruction could increase as emergency teams reach remote and heavily affected areas.

Search-and-rescue teams, supported by military personnel, police, volunteers and search dogs, have been working through the rubble in an effort to locate survivors. Difficult terrain and damaged communications infrastructure have complicated access to some of the hardest-hit communities, particularly in Chocó.

Authorities have also been dealing with reports of thousands of people whose whereabouts were initially unknown, while families have gathered at hospitals and emergency centers seeking information about relatives.

The earthquake generated numerous aftershocks, prompting authorities to warn residents to remain cautious around damaged structures. Airports in several affected cities were temporarily closed or inspected for structural damage, while some cities imposed curfews amid concerns over public safety.

Newly inaugurated President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a national state of emergency to accelerate the government’s response and ordered the mobilization of military and security forces to affected areas. The government has prioritized rescue operations, damage assessments and assistance for displaced residents.

International assistance has also begun to emerge. The United States has pledged $15.5 million in aid, while governments including Mexico, Chile and El Salvador have offered assistance to Colombia.

With rescue operations still underway and assessments continuing in remote areas, officials caution that both the death toll and the extent of material damage could rise further in the coming hours. (ILKHA)