Powerful Quake Rocks Colombia, Killing at Least 18

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake rocked Colombia and neighboring Latin American countries on August 10, 2026, leaving at least 18 people dead in initial reports. The quake, with an epicenter 100 km deep in the country's west, caused widespread destruction, particularly in cities like Pereira, where Mayor Mauricio Salazar reported 18 fatalities alone and described the situation as critical.

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the situation is critical.

News footage revealed collapsed buildings across western Colombia, with significant damage also reported in Cali, the country's third-largest city. Mayor Alejandro Eder stated that at least 20 buildings collapsed in Cali, and people were trapped. Drones are being used to assess the extensive damage. The governor of Choco province reported serious damage in the capital, Quibdo, which was near the epicenter.

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Caleños, al momento tenemos por lo menos 20 estructuras colapsadas en Cali, con personas atrapadas, ya estamos al frente de esta emergencia con todos los organismos de socorro de Cali

The early-morning tremor was felt as far away as Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela, prompting building evacuations in the Colombian capital, Bogota. While damage in Bogota appeared limited to facade cracks, residents described the quake as "very, very strong." Six small airports in western Colombia suspended operations. President Abelardo de la Espriella announced he would travel to the affected region.

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There is no electricity or cell phone coverage. It was strong, really strong. Things fell in my house.