Children At Risk After Strongest Earthquake In A Decade Strikes Colombia
by Save the Children · SCOOPThe strongest earthquake to hit Colombia in a decade has struck the western part of Colombia, causing widespread destruction across the Pacific Region. The disaster has left children and families facing uncertainty, fear and the loss of homes, schools and essential services, said Save the Children.
The quake hit on Monday morning as families were at home or beginning their day, with tremors felt as far away as Venezuela. While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, preliminary reports indicate that over 100 people, including children, have been killed, while many more have been injured.
Maria Mercedes Liévano, Save the Children’s Country Director for Colombia, said:
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"While the full extent of the damage is still emerging, we know that earthquakes can have a devastating impact on children in an instant. In the aftermath of an unforeseen event like this, children may face heightened risks to their safety, well-being and access to essential services. Communities are currently grappling with disruption and uncertainty."
The full scale of the impact is still emerging as damaged infrastructure, power outages and communications disruptions hamper assessments in some of the worst-affected areas. Reports indicate that buildings have collapsed, raising concerns that people may remain trapped beneath the rubble. Schools and public hospitals have been evacuated, with many sustaining severe damage, disrupting children's access to education, healthcare and safe spaces at a time when they need them most.
Children are among the most vulnerable in the aftermath of earthquakes, facing heightened risks to their health, protection and wellbeing, said Save the Children.
As response efforts continue, there is an urgent need for lifesaving assistance and support to rescue survivors, and help children and families cope with their immediate needs in the days and weeks ahead.
Save the Children stands ready to support affected communities and is closely monitoring the situation to provide support where it is needed the most.
Save the Children has worked in Colombia for 40 years, working in the regions most affected by natural disasters, armed conflict, violence, poverty, climate change, and mixed migration.
New Zealanders wanting to support Save the Children's work in emergencies can donate to our Children's Emergency Fund - https://www.savethechildren.org.nz/how-to-help/donate/childrens-emergency-fund-one-off
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