BOGOTÁ: The death toll from the earthquake that struck Colombia has climbed to 254, according to foreign media reports.

The heaviest losses were recorded in two cities: 101 deaths in Pereira and 95 in Cali.

Around 100 aftershocks have been recorded since the main quake, spreading fear through already damaged neighbourhoods and complicating search operations.

The destruction has been broad. Residential buildings, houses, schools and medical facilities were severely affected, and six airports in the country sustained damage — a serious constraint on the movement of relief supplies and personnel.

Tremors from the quake were felt across the region, reaching Peru, Ecuador, Panama and Venezuela.

Amid the grim tallies, rescue teams in Pereira pulled a woman alive from the rubble of a collapsed building 30 hours after the quake. Video of the rescue has circulated widely on social media.