The death toll from a powerful earthquake in Colombia has risen to 294, while 3,935 people have been injured and another 320 remain missing, according to the latest figures released by the country’s disaster management authorities.
The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) confirmed that the 294 deaths had been recorded as of 6:30 a.m. local time on Saturday, according to Anadolu Agency. The previous official death toll stood at 288, meaning six additional fatalities have since been confirmed.
Rescue teams are conducting extensive search operations to locate the 320 people still missing. Teams have been deployed across affected areas to search collapsed structures and debris for people who may remain trapped.
Alongside the search for survivors, authorities are providing medical assistance to the injured and assessing damage to infrastructure and other facilities affected by the earthquake.
The UNGRD is coordinating the national emergency response, working with local administrations, rescue teams and emergency service agencies. Casualty and damage figures are being regularly reviewed and updated based on information received from authorities operating in affected areas.
The search for missing people remains the top priority of the ongoing rescue operation. Additional personnel and specialized rescue equipment have been sent to affected locations to support the search and recovery efforts.
Local authorities are also providing emergency assistance and essential relief supplies to residents in the worst-hit areas. Immediate needs are being assessed so that humanitarian support can be directed to communities most urgently requiring assistance.
Authorities are continuing to evaluate the extent of damage to buildings, infrastructure and other facilities. The assessment will help determine the immediate requirements of affected communities and guide further relief and recovery measures.
Officials have cautioned that the current casualty figures should not yet be considered final. Search and rescue operations remain underway, and additional information on deaths, injuries or missing people could emerge as teams gain access to damaged structures and debris.
Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant, follow instructions from emergency services and cooperate with rescue and relief teams while operations continue.
Source: Anadolu Agency.