Colombia Quake Death Toll Reaches 265 as Rescuers Near 72-Hour Mark

The death toll from a powerful earthquake that struck Colombia on Monday has risen to 265, as rescue crews race to find survivors before the 72-hour mark when chances of finding people alive diminish. The magnitude 7.4 quake razed buildings, buckled roads, and crushed cars, leaving widespread devastation. Tonnes of aid from regional partners began arriving on Wednesday, as the disaster tests the new government of President Abelardo de la Espriella. His administration is scrambling to respond, while civil society groups push to deliver help to the worst-affected communities. Search teams are now entering what is described as the final phase of the rescue effort, with crews working through the rubble in hopes of finding more survivors.