Beyoncé pledges $1m to Colombia earthquake relief efforts

Beyoncé will donate $1m to support earthquake relief efforts in Colombia following disaster in Chocó

Beyoncé is set to donate $1 million (£730,000) to earthquake relief efforts in Colombia following a disaster that struck the country earlier this month.

An earthquake hit Colombia’s Chocó Department on August 10, killing at least 331 people and injuring thousands of others.

The earthquake was felt across large parts of western and central Colombia, with damage reported to buildings, infrastructure and roads.

Beyoncé announced on Wednesday that she would make a "personal donation" to support organisations working on the ground in Colombia.

The funds will primarily assist groups providing food and housing supplies to people affected by the earthquake.

A spokesperson for Beyoncé described the impact of the disaster saying, "The earthquake caused severe loss of life and critical injuries. Many homes were completely demolished living residents without shelter."

The representative added that the earthquake's epicentre was approximately three miles east of San Jose del Palmar and around 150 miles from Bogotá.

The earthquake was reportedly felt in cities across the country, while damage to infrastructure and roads has affected food supplies.

Beyoncé's representative also encouraged fans who want to contribute to ongoing relief efforts to visit the websites of Food For The Poor and World Central Kitchen.

The donation follows another contribution from Colombian singer Shakira, who pledged $1.25 million (£924,000) earlier this month towards building new schools in areas affected by the earthquake.

At the time, Shakira addressed the disaster on social media, writing, "Beloved Colombia, my heart is with everyone who felt this earthquake today and with the families who are going through moments of anguish. In times like these, we Colombians know how to come together and support one another."