Bogotá, Colombia — August 11, 2026: A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, killing at least 111 people and causing widespread destruction across several cities and rural communities, according to reports.
The earthquake severely affected areas including Cali, Quibdó and Pereira, with hundreds of buildings damaged or destroyed. Emergency teams are continuing rescue operations as authorities search for people believed to be trapped beneath collapsed structures.
Major Damage Reported
The powerful tremor caused buildings to collapse, damaged roads and disrupted communities across western Colombia. Reports indicate that around 1,600 buildings were damaged or collapsed, while thousands of people were initially reported missing or unaccounted for.
The rural town of El Cairo in western Colombia was among the hardest-hit areas, with reports indicating that approximately 80% of the town sustained damage. Difficult terrain and limited access to some affected communities are complicating rescue and relief operations.
In Cali, dramatic footage showed soldiers taking cover as structures at a military facility were damaged during the earthquake.
Rescue Operations Underway
Colombian soldiers, police officers, emergency workers and volunteers have been deployed to affected areas to search for survivors and provide assistance. Families have gathered at hospitals and emergency centers while authorities work to locate missing relatives.
The disaster comes at a particularly difficult moment for Colombia, with the country’s newly inaugurated president, Abelardo de la Espriella, traveling to the affected region to oversee the government’s response. The government has mobilized military and police resources and announced support measures for victims, including housing assistance.
International Assistance
The scale of the disaster has prompted international support. The United States has pledged $15.5 million in aid, while several Latin American countries have also offered assistance to Colombia.
Authorities warn that the death toll could rise as rescue teams reach more remote areas and continue searching damaged buildings.
The earthquake has become one of Colombia’s most serious natural disasters in recent years, leaving communities across the country’s western region facing a major humanitarian and reconstruction challenge.
This is a developing story. Figures and details may change as Colombian authorities continue their assessment and rescue operations.
