A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia Aug. 10, 2026, shaking communities across the country and causing at least 111 deaths as well as injuries and widespread damage. The earthquake was felt in Bogotá, Cali, Pereira, Manizales and other cities, as well as in neighboring Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela.
Colombia earthquake: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
- Fast facts: 2026 Colombia earthquake
- When did the Colombia earthquake happen?
- Where was the Colombia earthquake?
- How much damage did the Colombia earthquake cause?
- Was the Colombia earthquake felt in Venezuela?
- Is World Vision responding to the earthquake in Colombia?
- How can I help people impacted by the earthquake in Colombia?
Fast facts: 2026 Colombia earthquake
- A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia Aug. 10, 2026, impacting Bogotá, Cali, Pereira, and Manizales.
- Authorities in Colombia have reported that the death toll continues to rise, with at least 111 confirmed fatalities.
- The epicenter of the earthquake was located in San José del Palmar, a community of about 4,800 residents in the Chocó region, west of the capital city of Bogotá, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
- The tremors were felt beyond Colombia, with reports of seismic activity in neighboring Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela.
- Aftershocks followed the main earthquake, including two measuring 2.8 and 4.8 magnitude.
When did the Colombia earthquake happen?
The 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck at 7:34 a.m. local time on Monday, Aug. 10, 2026. The earthquake was followed by aftershocks, including tremors measuring 2.8 and 4.8 in magnitude.
Where was the Colombia earthquake?
The epicenter was near San José del Palmar in Colombia’s Chocó department on the country’s Pacific side, about 248 miles west of the capital city of Bogotá. The earthquake occurred at a depth of about 66 miles, according to the USGS.
The earthquake’s effects were felt far beyond the epicenter. Strong shaking was reported in cities including Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Bogotá, while tremors were also felt in Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela.
How much damage did the Colombia earthquake cause?
The earthquake caused widespread damage in several Colombian communities. Buildings collapsed in affected areas, people were trapped in some structures, and injuries and deaths were reported. Pereira has experienced particularly severe impacts, while damage has also been reported in Cali, Manizales, and Chocó. Airports in some affected cities were temporarily closed for safety inspections.
The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, and reports may change as emergency teams reach affected communities.
Was the Colombia earthquake felt in Venezuela?
Yes. The earthquake was felt in neighboring Venezuela, which is still recovering from two devastating earthquakes that struck north-central Venezuela June 24, 2026.
“The event shook us early in the morning,” said Raúl Rodríguez, corporate security manager for World Vision in Colombia. “Some people were on their way to work, while others were caught at home.”
Is World Vision responding to the earthquake in Colombia?
In Colombia, World Vision has activated its emergency committee and is assessing the situation in communities where it works.
“Right now, we are confirming that our staff are safe, and we are assessing the possible impact on the communities where we are present,” said Peter Gape, national director for World Vision in Colombia and Venezuela. “As an organization committed to children, we are monitoring the situation and stand ready to assess and respond to any needs that may arise.”
World Vision teams are continuing to assess needs and coordinate information from affected regions. As more information becomes available, World Vision will determine how best to support children and families impacted by the earthquake.
World Vision is also continuing its response to the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June. World Vision has been delivering emergency assistance, child protection support, and other critical services to affected communities there as they recover.
