Colombia earthquake: Pereira families queue to report damage
Families in Pereira are registering damage to their homes after a 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Colombia, as authorities assess properties and identify those eligible for emergency assistance.
The National Information System for Risk Management has established a Single Register of Those Affected to document damage and determine access to government aid. At registration points across the city, officials are inspecting properties, while residents describe the uncertainty they face. Diego Mejia said he was on the ninth floor of his building when residents were evacuated. Although authorities later found no structural risk, he said he was left without a place to live. At the Primero de Febrero housing complex, resident Carlos said authorities had told families that all 15 blocks would have to be demolished, leaving many residents with nothing.
Mexico has also sent humanitarian aid to Colombia following the earthquake, with the government saying 58.5 tonnes of food, water and medicines would be delivered between 12 and 14 August. Juan Carlos Valencia, president of the Risaralda Departmental Assembly, thanked Mexico for its support. Meanwhile, queues continue at registration points as authorities assess damaged properties and document the losses of affected families.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
