Colombia earthquake death toll rises to 132, dozens missing

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia yesterday, killing at least 132 people and leaving more trapped under debris, local officials said.

As rescue efforts continue, dozens have been reported missing, while over 570 people have been injured.

The earthquake’s epicenter was San Jose del Palmar, an underdeveloped area 250 miles west of the country’s capital, Bogota.

The quake was Colombia’s most powerful in a decade, according to the country’s Geological Service.

The disaster comes less than two months after two devastating earthquakes in Venezuela killed more than 6,000 people. It also struck just days after Colombia’s new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, took office.