World

Families angered by slow search for loved ones after Colombia quake

Al Jazeera · 2026-08-15

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Cali, Colombia, on Monday, leaving over 400 people missing and prompting families to express anger over the slow search for their loved ones trapped under rubble. • Why it matters: The disaster has caused significant destruction and emotional distress in the community, with families demanding more resources and clearer communication from authorities regarding rescue efforts. • What to watch next: The ongoing search and rescue operations, as well as the Colombian government's response to the families' demands for accountability and expedited efforts to locate the missing individuals.

**Families Angered by Slow Search for Loved Ones After Colombia Quake**

Cali, Colombia – Families are expressing their frustration and anger over the slow response in the search for their loved ones who are believed to be trapped under rubble following a powerful earthquake that struck the region on Monday. The 7.4 magnitude quake has left a significant impact, with over 400 individuals reported missing.

The earthquake, which struck during the early hours, caused extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure in Cali, one of Colombia's largest cities. Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of devastation, with collapsed structures and debris scattered throughout the affected areas. Rescue operations began shortly after the quake, but many families are now questioning the effectiveness and speed of the ongoing search efforts.

As rescue teams continue to sift through the wreckage, families have gathered at various locations, anxiously awaiting news about their missing relatives. Many have expressed their discontent with the pace of the rescue operations, citing a lack of communication from authorities and a perceived inadequacy in the response efforts. The emotional toll on these families is palpable, as they grapple with uncertainty and despair.

Reports indicate that the situation has worsened with the onset of a foul odor in some areas, raising fears that the bodies of those trapped may be decomposing beneath the rubble. This has intensified the urgency for search and rescue teams to expedite their efforts. Families are calling for more resources to be allocated to the search operations, including additional personnel and equipment to help locate their loved ones.

Local officials have acknowledged the challenges faced by rescue teams, including the complexity of navigating the debris and the need for safety precautions. However, the growing frustration among families is evident, as many feel that their loved ones are not receiving the attention and urgency they deserve.

As the days pass, the hope of finding survivors diminishes, but families remain resolute in their demands for answers and accountability. They are urging government officials to prioritize the search efforts and provide clear communication regarding the status of the rescue operations.

The earthquake has not only caused physical destruction but has also left emotional scars on the community. As families await updates, they are also coming together to support one another in this difficult time, sharing stories and memories of their loved ones who are still unaccounted for.

In the wake of this disaster, the Colombian government is under pressure to respond effectively and ensure that the needs of the affected families are met. The situation remains fluid, and as rescue operations continue, the hope for a positive outcome remains in the hearts of those waiting for news.

As the search continues, the community of Cali stands united in their grief and determination to find their missing loved ones, demanding that no effort be spared in the search for those still trapped beneath the rubble.

Source: Al Jazeera
RELATED NEWS

More Stories

All News
World

Lula holds slim lead over Flavio Bolsonaro ahead of Brazil election

• What happened: Brazilian President Luiz Inacio "Lula" da Silva holds a slim lead over right-wing Senator Flavio Bolsonaro in a new poll ahead of the...

World

UN urges support for Afghan women’s aid five years into Taliban rule

• What happened: The UN has warned that over half of women's organizations in Afghanistan may cease operations due to funding issues, five years after the ...

World

Iran war live: Trump vows to make Hormuz US territory ‘pretty soon’

• What happened: US President Donald Trump announced plans to declare the Strait of Hormuz a US territory "pretty soon" following the defeat of Iran, ...

World

Lebanon’s PM urges timetable for Israeli withdrawal as Hezbollah slams deal

• What happened: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam called for a definitive timetable for Israel's withdrawal from Lebanese territory amid rising tensions...

World

Houthi attack on port kills four eroding truce with Yemen’s government

• What happened: Six Houthi ballistic missiles struck Yemen’s government-held al-Makha port, resulting in at least four deaths and significant damage to the fac...

World

Yemen’s government says Houthi attack on al-Makha kills at least four

• What happened: Yemen's government reported that a Houthi missile attack on the port city of al-Makha resulted in at least four civilian deaths and signif...