PEREIRA - Colombian rescuers pulled a 32-year-old woman alive from the rubble of a collapsed building, sparking cheers and applause as exhausted crews raced to find more survivors from the country's strongest earthquake in a century.
Daniela Largo was carried from the wreckage wrapped in a blue blanket as rescuers embraced and relatives shouted out with joy.
The rescue came as soldiers, firefighters and volunteers searched collapsed buildings across western Colombia after a 7.4-magnitude quake killed at least 241 people and injured more than 1,600.
"We were losing hope and then we received a call," said her mother Sandra Milena Perez in Pereira.
Perez said a local resident heard cries for help beneath the rubble and joined neighbours in removing debris before professional rescuers arrived.
"Thanks to him, today we're happy," she said. "At home her 12-year-old son is waiting for her."
In Pereira and in Cali, emergency crews used cranes, dogs and heavy machinery to search ruined buildings while volunteers formed human chains to clear debris by hand, hoping to reach people still trapped beneath collapsed structures.
The quake overwhelmed parts of the health system, turning the rescue effort into one of Colombia's largest disaster responses in years.
Amid the destruction, many Colombians mobilised to help.
Thousands brought water, food and supplies to affected neighbourhoods, while long lines formed outside blood donation centres.
"It's about wanting to help your community, your city and your country," said blood donor Ferney Cabrera.
President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a state of emergency and promised rent subsidies for affected families Tuesday during a visit to Pereira.
The United States announced $15.5-million in emergency aid, while messages of support and offers of assistance arrived from around the world.
As aftershocks continued to rattle damaged cities, rescue crews pressed on through the ruins, hoping more voices, taps or whistles might still emerge.
- by David Salazar (AFP)