BOGOTA, Colombia: At least 77 people have been killed after a powerful earthquake struck western Colombia, causing widespread damage and the collapse of several buildings.
According to news agencies, a 7.4-magnitude earthquake hit the region, with tremors also felt in neighbouring Ecuador, prompting residents to evacuate homes and buildings.
The mayor of Cali said at least 20 buildings collapsed in the city, while several people were feared trapped under the rubble.
Authorities have requested specialised rescue teams from the capital Bogota and Medellin to assist in emergency operations.
The US Geological Survey said the earthquake’s epicentre was located in the municipality of San Jose del Palmar in the Choco region, around 400 kilometres west of Bogota.
Rescue and relief operations are underway in affected areas as officials continue to assess the extent of the damage and possible casualties.
More read, Magnitude 6.3 earthquake strikes southern Philippines
Earlier, a sudden wave of panic swept through parts of the southern Philippines when a strong offshore earthquake shook the region, forcing residents to rush for safety.
The magnitude 6.3 quake struck 32 kilometres southwest of Sarangani Island at 12:14 pm local time (0414 GMT), according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), with no tsunami warning issued and no immediate reports of casualties or major damage.
The USGS said the earthquake occurred at a depth of 62 kilometres, a measurement also reported by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.
The tremor struck while a large crowd had gathered at a local court on Sarangani Island to receive a government subsidy, according to rescuer Harly Sauro.
