A powerful earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, August 10, with the US Geological Survey reporting a magnitude of 7.4 and the Colombian geological service measuring it at 6.6. The epicenter was located in San José Del Palmar in the Chocó department, approximately 250 miles west of the capital, Bogota. The tremor was felt across parts of Latin America, including Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela, prompting evacuations in Bogota and other cities.
The disaster caused widespread destruction, particularly in the coffee-growing region and the Pacific coast. In cities including Cali, Pereira, Quibdo, and Manizales, numerous homes and buildings collapsed, with at least 20 buildings falling in Cali and a tower of the neo-Gothic cathedral collapsing in Manizales. President Abelardo de la Espriella stated that more than 1,500 homes were damaged. While initial reports cited lower numbers, the death toll rose to 224 by Tuesday, with more than 2,700 people reported missing.
Rescue operations continued into Tuesday as emergency teams, utilizing dogs and drones, searched through rubble for survivors. President Abelardo de la Espriella, who was sworn into office on Friday, declared a national state of disaster. In an effort to support rescue crews and deter looting, night-time curfews were imposed in Cali, Pereira, and Caldas. Authorities warn that the casualty count is likely to rise as rescuers reach more isolated communities.