Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader offered emergency support and assistance to Colombia on Monday following a magnitude 7.4 earthquake that left at least 111 people dead.
Abinader expressed his country's willingness to provide whatever aid is necessary after the tremor struck western Colombia on Monday morning, injuring 87 people.
In a message posted on social media platform X, Abinader expressed deep solidarity with the Colombian people on behalf of the Dominican Republic following the earthquake that impacted several regions of the country.
The Dominican president stated that his country stands alongside Colombia and remains prepared to provide any support and assistance required during the crisis. He added that his thoughts and prayers were with the victims, their families, and all affected communities.
Earthquake damage and casualties in Colombia
The earthquake struck at 07:34 local time (12:34 GMT) at a depth of 82 kilometers, according to the Colombian Geological Service. Its epicenter was located in the municipality of San José del Palmar, within the western department of Chocó.
Ground shaking caused widespread destruction across much of central and western Colombia. Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella reported a provisional casualty toll of 111 deaths and 87 people injured.
De la Espriella said the earthquake damaged 1,575 homes and completely destroyed 37 others. The seismic movement also resulted in the collapse of 61 buildings across the affected region.
Essential public infrastructure suffered significant impact, with 18 health centers and 52 educational institutions reporting damage from the tremor.
Transport disruptions and closed airports
Transportation networks across western and central Colombia experienced severe disruption following the tremor. President De la Espriella confirmed that 18 highways and roads sustained damage.
Seven regional airports suffered structural damage to their infrastructure and have been closed to commercial flights. The affected facilities include airports in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago, Cali, and Buenaventura.
Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader regularly updates the press during his weekly briefing, La Semanal con la Prensa. His offer of international assistance reflects growing regional solidarity for Colombia as rescue operations continue.
