A powerful earthquake shook western Colombia, leaving severe damage in Cali and Pereira. While rescuers search for survivors among the rubble, the government and international community are mobilizing with hope and aid.

A Historic Earthquake Strikes Western Colombia

According to The Guardian, on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 07:34 a.m., a 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the western department of Chocó in Colombia. Although the event has left a trail of destruction, the rapid response of rescuers and immense international solidarity spark a ray of hope amidst the tragedy.

Earthquake Details
  • Date and time: August 10, 2026, 07:34 local time.
  • Magnitude: 7.4 on the Richter scale.
  • Epicenter: Department of Chocó.
  • Casualties (as of 08/10): At least 132 dead and over 570 injured, according to the Colombian Association of Capital Cities.
  • Updated context: By August 12, 2026, regional authorities reported the death toll had surpassed 240.

Affected Cities: Cali, Pereira, and Manizales in State of Emergency

Western Colombia was the hardest hit area. In Manizales, Mayor Jorge Eduardo Rojas Giraldo reported the partial or total destruction of 12 buildings and 20 houses, urging the population to stay outdoors due to possible aftershocks. The Manizales Cathedral also suffered significant damage.

In Cali, Mayor Alejandro Eder confirmed the collapse of at least 20 buildings with people trapped inside. Moving scenes showed rescuers raising their fists to ask for silence to listen for survivors under the rubble. In Pereira, Mayor Mauricio Salazar detailed that 65 buildings collapsed, with victims trapped in 15 of them, and five hospitals overwhelmed by the influx of injured patients.

Government Response and International Aid

Colombia's President, Abelardo de la Espriella, who had assumed office the previous Friday, declared a national state of emergency. The president promised rent subsidies for families who lost their homes in Quibdó and deployed 1,000 additional security troops to Cali to prevent looting, establishing curfews in Cali, Armenia, and Manizales.

Internationally, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced $15.5 million in emergency aid to support rescue and assistance efforts. The quake was also felt in Venezuela, a country still recovering from a double earthquake on June 24, 2026, which left over 6,000 dead.

Airports and Connectivity

Aviation authorities reported that airports in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Cartago, Armenia, and Buenaventura suffered damage, complicating the arrival of aid. However, land routes and local efforts are keeping the chain of solidarity alive and strong.