In a devastating turn of events, a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, claiming at least 132 lives and causing widespread destruction across several cities. The disaster has left emergency services scrambling to locate survivors trapped beneath the rubble of collapsed buildings in Cali, Pereira, and other affected areas. Authorities have warned that the death toll could rise as search teams reach more remote regions, posing a significant challenge for newly-elected President Abelardo de la Espriella. The Choco region, located west of Cali and Pereira, has also been impacted, but the extent of the damage is still unclear. Over 2,700 people have been reported missing, with more than 1,600 buildings damaged or destroyed across the country. In Valle del Cauca alone, President de la Espriella reported over 700 injuries. The rescue effort faces particular challenges in the Choco region, which is remote and difficult to access, and where the epicentre of the earthquake, San Jose Del Palmar, is located. Colombia's Geological Service has reported 21 aftershocks and warned of further tremors. The International Rescue Committee has expressed concern over the situation, as the affected region is already in crisis, with at least 50 education facilities reportedly affected by the earthquake. President de la Espriella has declared a national state of emergency and mobilized the entire military and police apparatus for the response.