7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Colombia
The earthquake struck on August 10 near San José del Palmar in Colombia’s Chocó department, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The quake occurred at a depth of about 107 kilometers (66 miles) and was strong enough to be felt across large parts of the country.
Buildings Collapse as Rescue Operations Continue
The powerful tremor caused widespread damage across several municipalities, with some buildings collapsing and people becoming trapped beneath rubble. Among the areas affected were Pereira, Cali, Quibdó and Manizales, where authorities reported deaths, injuries and structural damage. More than 20 municipalities were affected by the earthquake, according to reports.
Emergency workers, police officers, firefighters and local residents have been involved in rescue operations as authorities continue searching damaged structures for people who may still be trapped.
Officials have warned that the situation remains fluid as emergency teams assess damage in affected communities, particularly in remote parts of Chocó, where difficult terrain and limited infrastructure have complicated rescue and relief efforts.
President Declares National Emergency
The earthquake has created an immediate national crisis for Colombia’s newly inaugurated president, Abelardo de la Espriella.
The president declared a national emergency and said government resources were being mobilized to protect residents, assist affected communities and support rescue operations.
Authorities have made finding and rescuing people trapped under the rubble their immediate priority.
Damage Reported Across Western Colombia
The earthquake was particularly damaging in western Colombia. Pereira and parts of the surrounding Risaralda region reported significant casualties, while Cali and other cities also experienced structural damage.
The shaking was felt far beyond the epicentral area, including in Colombia’s capital, Bogotá, and neighboring parts of the region. Several aftershocks were also reported following the main earthquake, keeping residents and emergency personnel on alert.
The depth of the earthquake meant that powerful shaking was experienced over a broad area, despite the epicenter being in a relatively sparsely populated part of Chocó.
International Assistance Offered
As the scale of the disaster became clearer, international support began emerging. The United States, Mexico and the United Nations have offered assistance to Colombia as the country begins its emergency response and recovery efforts.
Authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the destruction, meaning the number of casualties and the amount of infrastructure damage could change as rescue teams reach more affected areas.
Rescue Efforts Remain the Priority
For communities hit hardest by the earthquake, the immediate focus remains on saving lives.
Emergency crews are continuing to search damaged buildings, provide medical assistance to the injured and reach communities cut off or affected by infrastructure damage. Officials are also monitoring the region for additional aftershocks.
With rescue operations still underway, authorities have urged residents in affected areas to follow instructions from emergency services and remain cautious around damaged structures.
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