The nation of Colombia is reeling after being struck by its most powerful earthquake of the 21st century, a 7.4 magnitude disaster that has left at least 169 people dead. The Geological Service confirmed the severity of the quake, which hit on Monday and prompted the government to declare a state of emergency.
While many families, such as that of Liliana Pérez Ocampo, were fortunate enough to escape their homes before the structures were compromised, the scale of the tragedy is immense. Ocampo recounted the terrifying moments as the initial tremors intensified into a violent shaking that lasted over 30 seconds.
As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on the catastrophic loss of life and the daunting task of rebuilding in the wake of this natural disaster. While material possessions are replaceable, the human cost of this event serves as a grim reminder of the unpredictable power of nature and the fragility of infrastructure in high-risk zones.
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