Seven Children Dead, Over 100 Missing After 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake in Colombia

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake has left a trail of destruction in Quimbaya, Quindío, with 450 homes reduced to rubble. The human toll is devastating, particularly for the youngest members of the community. As of August 12, Colombian authorities confirmed seven children have died and more than 100 are missing in the aftermath of the quake.

The Colombian Institute for Family Welfare (ICBF) has mobilized to provide critical support to those affected. The institute reported deploying 36 mobile units across six prioritized departments, identifying 12 shelters, and offering psychological and family accompaniment to 654 minors. Additionally, 210 families have received assistance.

A specialized team has been formed to prevent and address potential separations of children from their families during the emergency response. This team is working to establish contact with 1,400 points of attention. Meanwhile, the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences has received 227 bodies from the Chocó department, indicating the broader impact of the disaster.