Colombia Earthquake News: At least 20 people have been killed after a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, August 10, triggering widespread damage, collapsing buildings and rescue operations across several cities. The earthquake was strongly felt in the capital Bogotá, hundreds of kilometres from the epicentre.
The epicentre was located near San José del Palmar in Chocó, approximately 400 kilometres west of Bogotá. According to earthquake monitoring agencies cited by news reports, the tremor occurred at a depth of around 107 kilometres. The earthquake was also felt in neighbouring Ecuador and Venezuela.
20 People Reported Dead
The death toll has risen to at least 20 people, with 18 fatalities reported in Pereira and two in Manizales, according to the latest reports available Monday. Rescue and emergency teams continued searching damaged buildings as authorities assessed the full extent of the destruction.
Several people were reportedly trapped beneath debris after buildings collapsed in affected areas. In Cali, authorities reported numerous damaged structures and requested additional rescue personnel from Bogotá and Medellín.
Heavy Damage Reported in Chocó
Chocó, where the earthquake’s epicentre was located, suffered significant damage. Quibdó, the departmental capital, reported injuries and structural damage following the powerful shaking. Officials warned residents to remain cautious as emergency crews continued inspections.
The earthquake also caused serious damage in Pereira, Cali and Manizales. In Manizales, part of a cathedral collapsed, while numerous homes and buildings were damaged.
Bogotá Residents Evacuate Buildings
The earthquake was strongly felt in Bogotá, where residents rushed out of buildings as the ground shook. Authorities urged people to remain alert and check buildings for structural damage before returning inside.
Although Bogotá is located roughly 400 kilometres from the epicentre, the strength of the earthquake allowed the tremors to be felt across a large portion of the country.
Airports Disrupted
The earthquake also disrupted transportation. Airports in several affected cities, including Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó and Armenia, temporarily suspended operations while authorities carried out safety and structural inspections.
The disruption could complicate rescue and relief efforts, particularly in areas where roads and buildings have sustained damage.
Authorities Warn of Aftershocks
Emergency officials are continuing to monitor the situation for possible aftershocks. At least two aftershocks, reportedly measuring 2.8 and 4.8, followed the main earthquake, according to reports.
Residents in affected areas have been advised to stay away from visibly damaged buildings and follow instructions from local emergency authorities.
Rescue Operations Underway
Colombian emergency services are conducting search-and-rescue operations in the worst-hit areas. Additional teams have been requested from major cities to assist local responders, while authorities continue collecting information about casualties and infrastructure damage.
The government has activated its emergency response mechanisms as the scale of the disaster becomes clearer. Officials are expected to provide further updates as rescue teams reach affected communities and inspect damaged structures.
Colombia Earthquake: Key Facts
- Magnitude: 7.4
- Epicentre: Near San José del Palmar, Chocó
- Depth: About 107 km
- Reported deaths: At least 20
- Worst-affected areas: Pereira, Manizales, Cali and Quibdó
- Bogotá: Strong shaking reported, with evacuations
- Neighbouring countries: Tremors felt in Ecuador and Venezuela
- Current situation: Rescue operations and damage assessments underway
This is a developing story. The death toll, number of injured people and extent of structural damage could change as emergency teams continue their assessments.
