A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, August 10, 2026, with its epicentre near San José del Palmar in the Chocó department. The earthquake occurred at a depth of about 107 km and sent powerful tremors across several parts of the country.

The earthquake caused widespread destruction, with buildings, hospitals and other infrastructure damaged or collapsed. Major cities including Cali, Pereira, Quibdó, Armenia and Manizales were affected, while tremors were felt in neighbouring countries.

The death toll has continued to rise as rescue operations progress, with reports on August 12 putting the number of fatalities at more than 200, while hundreds to thousands of people have been injured or remain unaccounted for. Rescue teams are using dogs, drones and heavy equipment to search collapsed structures for survivors.

Colombian authorities have declared an emergency and mobilised rescue and relief teams. Aftershocks have also been reported, adding to the challenges faced by rescuers.

The earthquake is being described as one of the strongest and most destructive earthquakes to hit Colombia in decades, leaving communities across western Colombia struggling with extensive damage and loss of life.

Note: The casualty figures are still changing as rescue teams reach more affected areas, so the final death toll is not yet confirmed.