Colombia earthquake kills 111 people
People ran for safety as buildings shook violently after a powerful earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, August 10, 2026.
The earthquake, measured at 7.4 magnitude, struck near San José del Palmar in the Chocó region at a depth of about 107 kilometres. The powerful tremor was felt across large parts of the country, including the capital, Bogotá.
Terrifying scenes were reported as residents rushed out of buildings and into open areas while structures shook. Emergency evacuations were also reported in several cities as authorities assessed the extent of the destruction.
The earthquake caused significant damage in parts of western Colombia, with buildings collapsing and people reportedly trapped beneath rubble. Cities including Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó and Cali were among areas affected by the strong shaking.
The death toll has continued to rise as rescue teams search damaged buildings. The latest Reuters report puts the number of confirmed deaths at at least 111, with 87 people injured, although authorities continue to assess the situation and the figures could change.
Colombian authorities have launched emergency response operations, with rescue workers searching for survivors trapped under collapsed structures. The government has also declared a state of emergency as officials coordinate relief efforts in the affected areas.
Footage circulating from affected communities shows the intensity of the shaking, with residents fleeing buildings as walls, ceilings and other structures were damaged. The disaster has created widespread fear as authorities continue checking buildings for structural safety.
Rescue and recovery operations remain ongoing, while officials continue to assess the full scale of the destruction and casualties.
