On Monday, August 10th, 2026, a magnitude 7.4 earthquake hit western Colombia at approximately 7:34 a.m. local time. The epicenter was near San José del Palmar in the Chocó department, close to Valle del Cauca.

The earthquake resulted in at least 111 fatalities and injured at least 87 people, including several children. Many remain trapped under rubble amid multiple landslides and severe damage to homes and infrastructure. According to an official tally at 2:45 p.m. local time, 1,575 homes were damaged, 37 destroyed, and 61 buildings collapsed. Damage was also reported to 18 health centers and 52 educational facilities.

The tragedy occurred just three days after the inauguration of Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella, who emphasized that the immediate priority is rescuing those still trapped.

In Cali, Colombia's third-largest city, authorities reported multiple landslides with people trapped and have requested reinforcements for rescue operations. The city’s mayor reported 18 deaths there.

The United Nations has teams on the ground liaising with national authorities and the country's disaster risk management agency to monitor the situation and support the response. UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq, speaking from New York, stated that the organization is following developments closely and stands ready to provide assistance. UN Resident Coordinator María José Torres Macho noted that the UN is preparing an initial emergency response meeting with the government to assess needs and mobilize aid.

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