Colombia’s Deadly August 10, 2026 Earthquake

On August 10th, 2026 a 7.2-7.5 level earthquake struck Columbia, leaving irreversible and devastating damage to infrastructure and human lives. 

As of August 27th, according to the UNDP, there have been a reported total 331 deaths, 4,449 people injured, and 364 people rescued. As the search and rescue continues, these numbers may vary with time. Hundreds are still searching for loved ones who are missing under the rubble of buildings which have collapsed. Important infrastructure has been destroyed including homes, schools, community centers, and hospitals. 

The main areas affected by the earthquake and who sustained the most damage include the Chocó Department, Risaralda Department, Caldas Department, Quindío Department, and the Cali region. 

According to CARE, prior to the earthquake, Columbia was already in need of humanitarian assistance to at least 9.1 million people due to conflicts in the region, poverty, and lack of basic human services and needs. The earthquake only exacerbated preexisting social deficit and destitution for many Columbians. 

Sources

Photo Al Jazeera

https://www.undp.org/latin-america/press-releases/rapida-assessment-colombia-earthquake-estimates-usd-132-billion-cop-421-trillion-structural-damage-and-generated-169