A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, resulting in the confirmed deaths of over 250 people. The quake caused widespread destruction, collapsing homes, schools, and hospitals across the region. Rescue teams are urgently searching for survivors buried under the rubble, focusing their efforts on the cities of Pereira and Cali. This marks the most devastating earthquake to hit Colombia this century. Authorities report significant infrastructural damage and are working to provide aid to those affected. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed as search and rescue operations continue. International assistance may be required to address the scale of the disaster.