Hope for finding more survivors from the devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Colombia is fading as a rescued woman dies of her injuries. Daniela Largo, 32, who was pulled from the rubble in Pereira after nearly 37 hours, succumbed to her injuries on Friday, leaving behind a 12-year-old son. Her death has cast a somber shadow over the ongoing rescue efforts, which continue to search for at least 320 unaccounted individuals. The earthquake, which struck on Monday, has killed at least 294 people and injured nearly 4,000, according to authorities. Rescuers are working tirelessly, using heavy machinery to clear debris in the hardest-hit areas. However, optimism among residents is waning, with many fearing that no more survivors will be found.
The earthquake has left a trail of destruction across several cities, including Cali, Pereira, and Manizales, with more than 14,000 homes collapsing. The reconstruction efforts are expected to cost millions, and President Abelardo de la Espriella has announced plans to declare a state of economic emergency to expedite recovery efforts. De la Espriella has also sought a temporary suspension of tariffs imposed by the United States to alleviate the economic strain on local businesses. Additionally, he has expressed gratitude for the $26.5 million in aid from the US and the support of international rescue teams, including those from Israel.
The emotional toll of the disaster is profound, with families anxiously waiting for news of their loved ones. Sandra Milena Perez, Largo's mother, expressed her despair, saying, 'I just want this all to be over quickly.' Meanwhile, Fernando Gaitan, a 55-year-old restaurant delivery worker, shared the growing sense of hopelessness among the residents, stating, 'If there is someone alive, it would be a miracle, but I don't think there's anyone alive underneath.' Despite the grim outlook, rescue teams remain committed, with firefighter corporal Javier Jimenez vowing, 'We're going to stay until the last person is recovered.'
FAQs
- **What was the magnitude of the earthquake in Colombia?** The earthquake that struck Colombia measured 7.4 on the Richter scale.
- **How many people have been confirmed dead from the earthquake?** At least 294 people have been confirmed dead as a result of the earthquake.
- **How many people are still unaccounted for after the earthquake?** Rescuers are still searching for at least 320 people who remain unaccounted for.
- **What assistance has Colombia received in the aftermath of the earthquake?** Colombia has received $26.5 million in aid from the United States, along with support from international rescue teams, including those from Israel.
