The United States has announced $15.5 million in emergency funding for Colombia after a 7.4-magnitude earthquake killed at least 111 people and damaged hundreds of buildings.
The US State Department said the funding would support emergency shelter, food, protection and earthquake assessments following the disaster.
Emergency support announced
“Following today’s devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake across various regions in Colombia, the Trump Administration is committing $15.5 million in funding,” the State Department said in a post on X.
The department added that the United States stood ready to support Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella and his government as authorities assessed the situation on the ground.
The US aid Colombia package is intended to help address urgent humanitarian needs following the earthquake.
US citizens also receiving assistance
State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said separately that the department was “actively assisting” American citizens affected by the earthquake.
He urged US citizens in Colombia to contact the US Embassy in Bogotá for consular assistance.
Hundreds of buildings damaged
The earthquake struck near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region, about 400 kilometres (249 miles) west of Bogotá, according to the US Geological Survey.
The quake occurred at a depth of approximately 107 kilometres (66 miles).
Colombian authorities reported at least 111 deaths and 87 injuries, while around 1,600 buildings were damaged. At least 61 buildings collapsed.
The scale of the destruction has prompted an international response as Colombian authorities continue assessing the damage and humanitarian needs.
Also read: At least 132 dead after Colombia’s strongest earthquake in years
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