Colombia declares national disaster after 7.4 magnitude earthquake kills at least 71

Colombia is grappling with the aftermath of a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake, prompting the government to declare a national disaster on August 10, 2026. The tremor has claimed at least 71 lives, a grim toll that has risen significantly since initial reports emerged.

The earthquake's epicenter was located in the Chocó department, which has reported four fatalities. However, the Risaralda department has suffered the most, with 40 deaths, followed by Valle del Cauca, which has recorded 27 deaths. The disaster declaration followed an extraordinary committee meeting led by President Abelardo de la Espriella to evaluate the emergency's scope.

Rescue efforts are in full swing, with emergency teams searching for survivors trapped in collapsed structures. In Risaralda's capital, Pereira, and various municipalities in Valle del Cauca, widespread destruction of homes and buildings has been reported. The municipality of El Cairo in Valle del Cauca is particularly devastated, with approximately 80% of its structures destroyed.

Damage has also impacted critical infrastructure and public services. In Cali, the capital of Valle del Cauca, the university hospital sustained partial collapses, and rescue operations are underway to evacuate trapped individuals. Several regional governments, including Ecuador, have pledged assistance to Colombia during this crisis.