At least 18 people have died after a powerful earthquake hit western Colombia, while other reports indicate that people may be trapped in collapsed buildings.
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The 7.4 magnitude tremor caused significant damage in several areas of the country and trapped people under rubble.
In the city of Cali, at least 20 buildings collapsed. Mayor Alejandro Eder confirmed that people might still be trapped inside, Reuters reported.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the epicenter was recorded near San José del Palmar, in the Chocó region. The quake was felt across a wide area, including the cities of Cali and Medellín.
Injured people and serious damage to buildings have also been reported in Quibdó and Pereira.
Following the seismic event, emergency teams have launched search and rescue operations to find people who may be under the rubble.
Among the damaged structures is the Manizales Cathedral.
