Colombian rescuers urge silence as search for earthquake survivors continues
Rescue teams in Colombia have asked the public to remain quiet while they listen for signs of life in the rubble after a 7.4-magnitude quake that left over 280 dead and hundreds missing.
Rescuers in several Colombian cities, including Cali, Pereira, Manizales and Quibdó, have called for silence as they listen for any indication of survivors in the debris from a 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck on Monday. The death toll rose to 281 on Thursday, with 348 people rescued so far.
"Unfortunately, we are reaching a point where the probability of finding survivors is dwindling," said David Santiago Tamayo, director of the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management, at a press conference. He added that the mission remains to keep searching for those reported missing.
Volunteer rescuer Daiana Rojas, who was unharmed by the quake, said she continues to hear sounds and remains hopeful that more people may be alive. She described the emotional impact of seeing survivors pulled from the rubble and the collective silence observed when teams listen for life signs.
President Abelardo de la Espriella said the government is deploying all available capacity, including international assistance, to address the complex situation. He noted that nearly 400 people are still missing, according to official figures, while other sources estimate more than 4,200 missing. Injuries exceed 3,900, and roughly 10,600 homes have been destroyed.
An aftershock of magnitude 4.2 struck the Chocó region on Thursday, adding to more than 160 aftershocks recorded since the main event, according to the Colombian Geological Survey.
International aid continues to arrive. Vice President José Manuel Restrepo announced that about 7 tons of humanitarian supplies have been delivered to the hardest-hit area, with additional shipments expected to bring the total to nearly 40 tons. Rescue teams from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and several Latin American countries have also joined the effort.
The United Arab Emirates pledged a $10 million donation, China offered $1 million in cash and over $2 million in assistance, and the South American Football Confederation together with the Colombian Football Federation committed $1 million for reconstruction.
Authorities say the first 48-72 hours after a quake are critical for rescuing survivors, but as time passes the focus is shifting toward recovery and humanitarian support.