10.08.2026 21:20
A 7.4 magnitude earthquake in western Colombia caused widespread panic in many cities across the country. The violent tremors collapsed buildings while crews continue search-and-rescue operations in the rubble. AP reported that the death toll from the earthquake has reached 73. With more than 100 people reported missing, there are concerns that the death toll may rise further.
A 7.4 magnitude earthquake in western Colombia caused major destruction. The death toll, initially reported as 52, has risen to 73 as search and rescue efforts continue. Many buildings collapsed, and missing person reports have been filed for more than 100 people.
EPICENTER OF THE EARTHQUAKE SAN JOSE DEL PALMAR
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region of western Colombia. The tremor, which struck at a depth of approximately 107 kilometers, was felt across a large part of the country.
The earthquake, felt in cities such as Medellin, Pereira, Manizales, Cali, and Quibdó, as well as the capital Bogota, caused widespread panic among the public.
PEREIRA AND CALI HARD HIT
Following the earthquake, many structures in Pereira and Cali, in particular, were reported to have collapsed or been severely damaged. According to the latest statements, 40 people lost their lives in Pereira and 27 in the Valle del Cauca region. Fatalities were also recorded in Manizales and other areas.
Search and rescue teams continue their work in the rubble of collapsed buildings, while authorities have warned that the number of dead and injured could change.
BUILDINGS COLLAPSED, HISTORICAL STRUCTURES DAMAGED
Due to the earthquake, buildings in many cities, especially Cali, Pereira, Quibdó, and Manizales, were damaged. Some structures completely collapsed, and it was reported that a part of the historic cathedral in Manizales was also damaged by the earthquake.
As damage also occurred at some airports, flights were temporarily suspended, and security checks were initiated at the facilities.
PRESIDENT ACTIVATES EMERGENCY RESPONSE CENTER
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella ordered the establishment of a Unified Command Center to coordinate response efforts in the region following the earthquake.
The government mobilized teams to assess damage, reach those trapped under rubble, and meet urgent needs in the area. It was reported that President de la Espriella would also travel to the disaster zone to coordinate efforts on site.
TREMBOR FELT IN NEIGHBORING COUNTRIES
The powerful earthquake was felt not only in Colombia but also in neighboring countries. Following the tremor in Ecuador and Panama, some buildings and public facilities were evacuated as a precaution.
Aftershocks continued to be recorded in the region, while teams are ongoing with damage assessment and search and rescue operations. Authorities fear the death toll may rise further as they reach people believed to be trapped under the rubble.