Colombian rescuers save 32-year-old woman trapped 36 hours under rubble

A 32-year-old woman was rescued after spending 36 hours trapped under rubble following a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake in Colombia. The earthquake struck on Tuesday in the Coffee Region, an area known for its mountainous terrain and numerous small towns. Rescue teams worked tirelessly through the night, using heavy machinery and listening devices to locate survivors buried beneath shattered buildings.

This earthquake is part of a series of seismic activities that have affected Colombia over the past month, raising concerns about the structural integrity of buildings in the region. Experts have noted that many structures, especially older ones, may not be equipped to withstand such strong tremors. The earthquake's timing coincided with ongoing discussions about disaster preparedness in Colombia, where natural disasters pose significant risks due to the country's geography and climate.

The woman, identified as Maria Vasquez, was found alive in a collapsed building in the town of Manizales. Rescuers reported that she was in stable condition and had suffered only minor injuries. Community members gathered at the site, expressing relief and joy at her survival. Local authorities have reported at least five fatalities and dozens of injuries linked to the earthquake, with ongoing assessments of damage to infrastructure.

In the coming days, officials will focus on recovery efforts and providing aid to those affected. The government has announced plans to evaluate building codes and enhance emergency response systems to better prepare for future earthquakes. This incident highlights the importance of disaster readiness in Colombia, where seismic activity is common, and serves as a reminder of the need for robust infrastructure to protect lives.