Los Topos Aztecas arrive in Colombia to assist after 7.4 magnitude earthquake

Mexican rescue specialists known as Los Topos Aztecas have arrived in Cali, Colombia, to assist in search and rescue operations following a 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck the southwestern region of the country.

The volunteer group, which specializes in navigating collapsed structures to locate survivors, arrives as local authorities and emergency services continue to manage the aftermath. The earthquake has resulted in significant damage, with reports indicating that at least 20 bodies have been received by forensic services, and 121 victims have been identified.

In light of the disaster, rescue experts have shared safety advice regarding earthquake positioning. While the international standard is to ‘Drop, Cover, and Hold On,’ specialists from Los Topos suggest that lying on one's back next to a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a bed or refrigerator, can help minimize the physical space occupied. This position may increase the chances of being located by rescuers amidst debris compared to fetal or kneeling positions.