Death toll from Colombia earthquake rises to 169

The death toll from the powerful earthquake that struck Colombia on August 10 has risen to 169, AzerNEWS reports.

Earlier reports had put the number of fatalities at 132, while 570 people were reported injured.

The highest number of deaths was recorded in the cities of Cali and Pereira. Search-and-rescue operations are continuing around the clock across the country as emergency teams work to locate and assist those affected by the disaster.

The 7.4-magnitude earthquake was reportedly centered in the municipality of San José del Palmar, in Colombia’s Chocó department.

The tremors were felt in the capital Bogotá, as well as in Pereira and Manizales. Numerous homes were destroyed, while a state of emergency was declared across the country.

The earthquake also caused major disruptions to transportation infrastructure. Traffic was brought to a standstill on several highways, while a number of airports temporarily suspended operations.

Authorities are continuing to assess the extent of the damage as rescue and recovery efforts remain underway.