The death toll from the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia on August 10, 2026, has risen to 265, according to the latest update from Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella. Rescue teams continue searching damaged and collapsed buildings for survivors as authorities assess the scale of the disaster.
Powerful Earthquake Hits Western Colombia
The earthquake struck western Colombia and was one of the strongest earthquakes recorded in the country this century.
The tremor caused widespread destruction across several areas, with Cali, Pereira, Manizales and communities in the Chocó region among the locations reporting serious damage. Buildings collapsed, hospitals and schools were damaged, and roads and other infrastructure were affected.
Hundreds Dead and Thousands Injured
Authorities have confirmed 265 deaths, while more than 3,700 people have been injured.
The casualty figures have continued to change as emergency teams reach affected areas and recover victims from damaged structures. Nearly 500 people were still reported missing in the latest Reuters update.
Rescue Teams Search Collapsed Buildings
Search-and-rescue operations remain the priority.
Emergency workers are using cranes, trained rescue dogs and heavy machinery to search through rubble. Rescue teams are working particularly carefully around collapsed residential and commercial structures where people may still be trapped.
International assistance has also arrived, including rescue teams from neighbouring countries.
Major Damage Reported in Cali and Pereira
Cali and Pereira have been among the worst-affected urban areas.
Several buildings collapsed, while hospitals and other public infrastructure suffered damage. The disaster has also disrupted transportation and other essential services in parts of western Colombia.
The destruction of thousands of homes has left many families requiring temporary shelter and emergency assistance.
Government Declares Emergency
President Abelardo de la Espriella has announced an emergency reconstruction fund to help rebuild homes, hospitals, schools and damaged infrastructure.
The government has also taken measures to coordinate rescue and relief operations while authorities continue assessing the full economic impact of the earthquake.
Aftershocks Create Additional Risks
Rescue workers are also dealing with the risk of aftershocks and unstable structures.
Authorities have restricted access to some affected locations to prevent additional casualties and to ensure heavy rescue equipment can operate safely.
Curfews have also been introduced in some areas amid concerns over looting and public safety.
Colombia Begins Long Recovery Process
Beyond the immediate rescue operation, Colombia faces a major reconstruction challenge.
Thousands of homes have been damaged or destroyed, while public infrastructure and businesses have also suffered significant losses. More than 9,550 homes were reported damaged in the latest assessment cited by Reuters.
The government is expected to focus on emergency housing, medical assistance, infrastructure repairs and financial support for affected communities.
Dramatic Rescues Offer Hope
Despite the devastation, rescue teams have continued finding survivors.
In one dramatic case, a woman was rescued alive nearly 38 hours after the earthquake after being trapped beneath debris in Pereira. Rescue workers spent around 10 hours freeing her from the collapsed structure.
Such rescues have encouraged emergency teams to continue searching buildings where survivors could still be located.
Death Toll Could Change Further
Authorities are still conducting search operations and verifying casualty figures.
As rescue teams reach more isolated communities and inspect collapsed structures, the number of deaths, missing people and injuries could change.
For now, the 265 confirmed deaths, thousands of injuries and extensive infrastructure damage make the earthquake one of Colombia’s most serious natural disasters in recent years.
Source: Colombian authorities, Reuters and international emergency reports.
Original Report: Colombia’s 7.4-magnitude earthquake has killed 265 people, injured thousands and left hundreds missing as rescue and recovery operations continue.
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