Major 7.4 magnitude earthquake strikes western Colombia

On Monday, August 10, 2026, a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the coffee-growing region of western Colombia, causing widespread devastation. The most recent reports from local authorities indicate a death toll of 224 people, with 668 injured and over 3,000 individuals currently listed as missing. Cities including Pereira, Cali, Manizales, Quibdo, and Armenia remain under a state of emergency, with 165 buildings confirmed to have collapsed across the country.

President Abelardo de la Espriella, who assumed office just three days before the disaster, has declared a national state of emergency. He visited affected areas in Quibdo and Cali to coordinate rescue efforts. The United States government has pledged $15.5 million in humanitarian aid to support emergency shelter, food, and rescue operations. Rescue teams, supported by police, military, and volunteers, continue to search through debris, occasionally using bare hands to locate survivors. Notable rescue operations in Cali have successfully retrieved a six-month-old infant and his mother, providing a rare moment of hope amidst the destruction.

This seismic event is the strongest to hit the country since 1979. The Colombian Geological Service has reported dozens of aftershocks, and seven airports have suspended operations to evaluate structural safety. The country remains in a critical state as emergency services continue their life-saving efforts.