Deadly 7.4-magnitude earthquake strikes western Colombia

A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on the morning of August 10, 2026, causing widespread destruction in the coffee-growing heartland. With an epicenter near San Jose del Palmar in the Choco region, the seismic event significantly impacted cities including Cali, Pereira, and Manizales, causing numerous multi-story buildings to collapse, including hospitals and a historic cathedral. Official death toll reports vary significantly across sources, ranging from over 120 to more than 250 casualties, with hundreds of people injured and thousands reported missing.

Emergency crews, supported by military, police, and volunteers, are engaged in a critical search for survivors, with a 72-hour window considered crucial for rescue efforts. Notable successes include the survival of a mother and her infant, as well as the rescue of a 31-year-old doctor, Diana Troncoso, nearly 30 hours after the disaster. Authorities have reported that nearly 5,000 homes were damaged, along with hundreds of educational and health facilities.

International support has been mobilized, with the United States pledging $15.5 million in aid, while the European Union has activated its Copernicus satellite system and consular assistance mechanisms. While the UN has offered assistance, the Colombian government has not yet issued a formal request for international aid, as authorities continue to manage ongoing seismic activity and rescue operations.