A powerful Colombia earthquake has killed at least 111 people after a magnitude 7.4 tremor struck western Colombia on Monday, August 10. President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a national disaster as rescue teams searched damaged buildings for survivors.
The earthquake struck at 7:34 a.m. local time near San José del Palmar in Chocó. The quake had a depth of about 103 kilometers. Its effects were felt across much of western Colombia and as far east as Bogotá. Current reports put the number of injured at more than 80, while the death toll could rise as rescue work continues.
The Colombian earthquake caused severe damage in Pereira, Cali, Manizales and several towns in Chocó and Valle del Cauca. Some buildings collapsed, while other structures developed cracks and other visible damage.
The Servicio Geológico Colombiano monitors seismic activity across the country and provides official information on earthquakes and aftershocks.
Colombia Earthquake Causes Widespread Damage
Pereira has reported one of the highest numbers of casualties. Several buildings collapsed, and rescue workers have been checking areas where people may remain trapped.
Cali, Colombia’s third-largest city, also reported structural damage. Authorities evacuated some buildings as aftershocks continued.
The earthquake was felt strongly in Manizales and Quibdó. Images from affected areas showed damaged buildings, fallen structures and people gathering outside their homes.
Several regional airports were also affected. Flights were suspended or disrupted at airports serving Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago and Buenaventura.
In Bogotá, the shaking lasted long enough to send people out of homes and offices. Some buildings were evacuated as a precaution. City officials reported cracks in some structures but no major infrastructure collapse in the capital.
The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management coordinates Colombia’s national emergency response and works with local authorities during major disasters.
Rescue Teams Search Damaged Buildings
Emergency crews are now focused on search and rescue operations in the worst-hit areas.
The depth of the earthquake reduced some of its surface impact compared with a shallower earthquake of the same magnitude. However, the strength of the tremor still caused serious damage across several cities.
Authorities have warned residents to stay away from damaged buildings. Aftershocks can weaken structures that were already affected by the main earthquake.
Bogotá officials have also reminded residents to follow emergency instructions and avoid damaged structures. The city maintains a permanent seismic monitoring network through IDIGER. More information on earthquake safety is available through Bogotá earthquake preparedness guidance.
The government has activated emergency measures that allow public authorities to redirect resources toward rescue, medical care and recovery.
The USGS Earthquake Hazards Program also tracks major earthquakes around the world and provides scientific information about seismic events.
Colombia Declares National Disaster After Deadly Quake
The disaster declaration gives the Colombian government additional tools to coordinate the response and move resources toward affected communities.
The earthquake struck in a region where access can be difficult, especially in rural areas of Chocó. Roads and other infrastructure have been damaged, creating another challenge for rescue teams trying to reach isolated communities.
The disaster also comes after deadly earthquakes recently struck neighboring Venezuela. The timing has raised concern across the region, although each earthquake has its own geological cause.
Authorities continue to assess the damage while rescue operations remain active. The final number of victims is expected to become clearer as teams reach more affected areas and inspect damaged buildings.
