King Charles Sends Heartfelt Message to Colombia After Devastating Earthquake

King Charles has expressed his deep sorrow following a devastating earthquake in Colombia that has left hundreds of people dead, thousands injured and many others missing.

According to the Colombian president, at least 180 people were killed in the disaster, while around 2,595 others were injured. Authorities said at least 195 people remained missing. However, civilian-run databases have suggested that the number of missing people could be significantly higher, potentially reaching 3,800.

The devastating earthquake has caused widespread destruction across several parts of the country, with rescue teams continuing to search through collapsed buildings and damaged structures for survivors.

King Charles Shares Emotional Message

On Tuesday evening, King Charles shared a heartfelt message on social media expressing his sadness over the tragedy.

The King said he and Queen Camilla were “dreadfully saddened” to hear about the earthquake and the devastating loss of life it had caused.

Charles also praised the Colombian people for their “resilience and strength” as the country continues to deal with the aftermath of the disaster.

In his message, the King offered his sympathy and condolences to those who had lost loved ones, those who had been injured and families still waiting for news about missing relatives.

The message, signed “Charles R”, read:

“To the people of Colombia,

“My wife and I were so dreadfully saddened to learn of the devastating earthquake that has struck your country, and the tragic loss of life and suffering it has caused.

“At this most difficult of times, our special thoughts are with the bereaved and injured, those awaiting news of family and friends and the emergency responders working tirelessly to support those in need.

“We greatly admire the resilience and strength of the Colombian people, and we send our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences during this most challenging and distressing period.

“Charles R.”

Extensive Damage Reported

The earthquake has also caused extensive damage to homes and infrastructure across the affected regions.

The Colombian president said that around 1,136 homes had been destroyed, while many more were damaged. Emergency authorities warned that the full scale of the destruction could take time to establish, particularly in remote and rural communities.

Deaths have been reported in several cities, including Cali, Pereira, Manizales and Quibdo. However, local leaders and families have raised concerns that the number of casualties could increase as rescue teams reach areas where communication and access remain limited.

Some rural communities have received little information since the earthquake struck, adding to concerns about residents who may still be trapped or in need of urgent assistance.

Rescue Teams Search Through Rubble

Soldiers, emergency responders, rescue personnel and local families have joined efforts to search for survivors.

In some areas, rescuers have been working through piles of rubble by hand, passing large pieces of concrete along human chains as they attempt to reach people who may be trapped beneath collapsed structures.

Emergency workers have been facing difficult conditions while continuing their search-and-rescue operations. Families have also gathered at damaged sites, anxiously waiting for information about relatives and loved ones who remain unaccounted for.

With rescue operations still underway, authorities are continuing to assess the damage and search affected communities for survivors.

The scale of the disaster has prompted an outpouring of sympathy, with King Charles among those expressing support for the people of Colombia during what he described as an extremely difficult and distressing period.