As rubble clears, Colombia begins focusing on recovery after the earthquake

“One week after a magnitude‑7.4 quake devastated western Colombia, rescue teams are shifting from life‑saving searches to medium‑term recovery, including shelter, food distribution and rebuilding damaged infrastructure. The disaster has left at least 289 dead, more than 4,000 injured, and has damaged or destroyed over 150,000 homes, schools, hospitals and critical road and water systems. U.S. humanitarian firms and construction companies are already being tapped to supply emergency kits, temporary housing modules and engineering expertise, creating short‑term market opportunities. Expert Analysis: The quake underscores the growing need for resilient supply chains and rapid‑deployment construction solutions, sectors where U.S. firms have a competitive edge. As Colombia seeks international assistance, American companies that can deliver modular, earthquake‑proof housing may capture a foothold in the Latin American rebuilding market.”