Colombia earthquake toll reaches 321 dead, 31,445 homes destroyed

The earthquake that struck western Colombia on August 10 has left 321 people dead, 4,595 injured, and 257 missing, according to the latest government balance released on August 21 Source: La República. The disaster affected 15 departments, damaging 163,884 homes and destroying 31,445, while 467 buildings collapsed Source: La República. More than 146,000 families were affected, and 364 people have been rescued Source: Infobae.

Government response

President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a state of economic emergency and created the "Fondo Milagro" to lead reconstruction, inspired by the Forec fund used after the Eje Cafetero earthquake Source: La República. The decree covers 14 departments for an initial 30 days Source: La República. The government has implemented rental subsidies, temporary housing, and health services in affected areas Source: Infobae.

International aid

More than 220 tons of aid have arrived, with 144 specialized personnel deployed Source: Infobae. Countries including China, Germany, Sweden, India, the US, Guatemala, Luxembourg, and Japan have sent supplies Source: Infobae.

Economic impact

Private estimates place losses in five departments at $30 trillion, with $24.5 trillion in building damage and $5.5 trillion in infrastructure Source: La República. The government has not yet confirmed these figures, and some sources report slightly different housing damage numbers (31,461 destroyed) Source: Infobae.