Colombia's President Abelardo de la Espriella speaks after leading and earthquake response meeting in Bogota, Colombia, Monday,. AP-Yonhap
PEREIRA, Colombia — Colombia on Monday declared a state of emergency following a powerful earthquake that caused at least 111 deaths and flattened dozens of buildings, trapping more victims underneath.
The 7.4-magnitude quake struck western Colombia at 7:34 am (1234 GMT) and triggered a frantic search for survivors in several cities.
"The national government is maintaining all its capacities deployed to protect lives, assist affected communities and deliver aid to every area that needs it," President Abelardo de la Espriella stated from Bogota.
The leader appointed just three days ago reported 111 deaths, 87 people injured and over 1,000 buildings were damaged.
