Powerful 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Western Colombia, Death Toll Rises

BOGOTA — A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, causing widespread destruction and a rapidly rising death toll as rescue teams searched damaged buildings for survivors.

Early reports cited at least 69 deaths, but the casualty figure increased significantly as authorities reached more affected areas. By later Monday, officials were reporting at least 111 fatalities and dozens of injuries, while rescue operations remained under way.

Epicentre in Western Colombia

The earthquake was centred near San José del Palmar in Colombia's western Chocó region. Strong shaking was reported across several cities, including Cali, Pereira, Quibdó and Manizales.

Buildings Damaged and Residents Trapped

The quake damaged hundreds of buildings and caused structures to collapse in several urban areas. Emergency crews, police, soldiers and volunteers worked through debris as reports emerged of people trapped beneath collapsed structures.

National Emergency Response

Colombian authorities mobilised emergency resources as the scale of the disaster became clearer. The government declared a national emergency, while affected communities faced disrupted transport, damaged public facilities and continuing concerns over aftershocks.

Death Toll Continued to Change

The original report supplied for this article carried an early toll of 69 deaths. Because casualty figures rose quickly during the rescue operation, later official and international reports placed the toll above 100. Figures may continue to change as search-and-rescue teams reach additional locations.

Search for Survivors Continues

Rescue teams continued searching damaged neighbourhoods while authorities assessed the condition of homes, hospitals, roads and other infrastructure. Officials warned residents in affected areas to remain alert to aftershocks and follow emergency instructions.

Editorial note: This rewritten article updates the early 69-death figure in the supplied MSN report. Associated Press reported at least 111 deaths later on August 10, 2026; casualty totals remained fluid.

Sources: MSN report supplied by the reader; Associated Press and other current reports, August 10–11, 2026.