Columbian cities of Cartago, Pereira hit by massive 6.4 magnitude earthquake

An earthquake of magnitude of 6.4 struck the region located around 5 km southeast of Cartago city in Colombia, with a population of around 134,000, the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre reported on Friday.

EMSC said the earthquake's depth was 115 km (71.46 miles).

The effects of this natural disaster were not limited to Cartago; the majority of the quake's force was felt in Pereira, a city of around 467,000 inhabitants located 22 km southwest.

Although inhabitants are struggling to deal with the aftermath, reports from the ground show scenes of mayhem. Official information about the level of damage or possible casualties has not yet been released by Colombian authorities.

Following this seismic nightmare, communities around the country are waiting impatiently for word on the whereabouts of their loved ones and houses, and they are preparing for a difficult and protracted path to recovery.