Bogota, Aug 11 (V7N)- The death toll from a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake in Colombia has risen to 132, while at least 570 people have been injured. Rescue and relief operations are continuing across several affected areas.

The earthquake struck different parts of the country on Monday morning local time, sending people fleeing from homes, workplaces and schools in panic. Several buildings collapsed in the powerful tremor.

According to the latest information from the Association of Capital Cities of Colombia, at least 66 of the deaths were reported in the western city of Pereira alone. Authorities fear the casualty figures could rise as search and rescue operations continue.

Five Colombian capital cities have been placed under the highest-level 'red alert', according to the association. So far, 86 buildings have reportedly collapsed, while operations at seven airports have been suspended.

In Cali, at least 188 people remain missing, according to the city's mayor's office. Rescue teams are continuing operations in search of those who may be trapped.

Meanwhile, 16 people who became trapped in an aerial cable car system in Pereira were rescued after around six hours. The city's mayor's office said they were trapped following the earthquake and were eventually evacuated safely.

US announces $15.5 million in aid

The United States has announced $15.5 million in assistance for earthquake victims in Colombia.

The US State Department said the funds would be used to provide shelter, food and security for affected people, as well as to assess the extent of the damage.

The US Embassy in Bogota has also said it is assisting American citizens in Colombia and providing necessary support to US tourists affected by the disaster.

Major blow to Colombia's 'coffee region'

The earthquake has severely affected Colombia's renowned 'coffee region', a mountainous and economically important area that accounts for a significant share of the country's coffee production.

The region has experienced devastating earthquakes in the past. A powerful earthquake in 1999 killed around 1,200 people.

Following the latest earthquake, authorities fear that more people could remain trapped under collapsed structures. Rescue teams have therefore intensified search operations, while local administrations are working to provide food, shelter and other emergency assistance to affected communities.

END/SMA/AJ