In brief
A powerful earthquake rattled western Colombia on Monday, registering a magnitude of 7.4 and unleashing widespread devastation. Over a hundred lives were lost and dozens more sustained injuries, with collapsed structures prompting urgent rescue operations. The tremor spread its reach across northern South America, shaking neighboring Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama. Local officials have begun assessing damage while international relief agencies mobilise supplies and expertise. The disaster underscores the continued seismic vulnerability of Colombia’s western coast.
A 7.4‑sized earthquake struck western Colombia at 3.32 p.m. local time on Monday, sending a shockwave through the region that left a large swath of the country trembling.
Local authorities report that 111 people were killed and dozens more suffered injuries.
The quake destroyed numerous buildings, creating rubble that has trapped residents in several homes and businesses.
Rescue crews have been deployed immediately to the hotspots, working to dig through debris and locate survivors.
The tremor was felt beyond Colombian borders, reaching Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama where the national seismic monitoring networks recorded measurable motion.
Spanish‑speaking communities in the region have requested assistance, and Colombian emergency services have opened a national emergency hotline to coordinate relief operations.
Source: BBC News report, August 10, 2026.
