A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Colombia’s Pacific coast in Chocó province, leading to at least 111 confirmed deaths and extensive damage across multiple regions. The government declared a national state of emergency as rescue efforts continue to locate survivors trapped in collapsed structures.
The quake’s epicenter was near the eastern tip of Chocó, close to the Tatama National Nature Reserve, and tremors were felt across western Colombia and neighboring countries including Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela.
Casualties and Damage Reports
Authorities reported 111 deaths, 87 injured, and considerable damage to more than 1,500 homes. At least 37 homes were completely destroyed, with 61 buildings collapsed and 18 health centers alongside 52 schools damaged. The hardest-hit areas include the cities of Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and regions within Valle del Cauca, Risaralda, and Chocó.
The mayor of Cali reported at least 20 collapsed buildings with people trapped inside, and emergency services from Bogota and Medellin were requested for assistance. In Pereira, 18 deaths were recorded, while Chocó officials confirmed 12 fatalities and 84 wounded locally.
Government and International Response
Colombia’s newly sworn-in leader took personal command of the emergency response efforts. International bodies expressed support, with the European Union activating its Copernicus satellite service to assist rescue operations, and the U.S. government monitoring the situation and ready to provide aid.
Impact on Infrastructure
Airport operations were temporarily suspended at six airports, including Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago, Buenaventura, and later Cali, pending structural assessments. Civil aviation authorities confirmed damage but described it as relatively minor.
Seismic Details and Regional Effects
The earthquake occurred approximately 107 kilometers underground, contributing to its wide-reaching impact. Along with the main quake, a magnitude 5.0 aftershock was recorded roughly an hour later. The event took place along the Ring of Fire tectonic belt near Colombia’s Pacific coast.
