Six airports close after M7.4 Colombia earthquake

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake has struck western Colombia, causing significant damage and forcing the closure of six regional airports.

The Colombian Civil Aviation Authority (Aerocivil) announced on Monday, August 10, that airports in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago, and Buenaventura sustained damage. Air operations at these terminals are suspended until structural integrity can be assessed, prioritizing safety.

The earthquake's magnitude was initially reported as 6.8 by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Institute (EMSC) before being revised upward to 7.4, consistent with U.S. geological assessments. The epicenter was located near San Jose del Palmar in the Chocó region.

Tragically, the earthquake has claimed at least 111 lives across the country, according to President reports. Rescue efforts are underway in cities like Cali, where buildings have collapsed, trapping residents. Tremors were also felt in neighboring Ecuador and Venezuela. The disaster highlights the region's seismic vulnerability.

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Damage is reported at the airports of Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago, and Buenaventura. For safety reasons, air operations at these terminals remain suspended until structural damage to the infrastructure is assessed.