**Strong Earthquake Causes Significant Damage and Injuries in Colombia**
*10 August 2026 - Bogotá, Colombia*
A powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale struck Colombia's Pacific coast early this morning, resulting in considerable damage and injuries, particularly in the Chocó province. The earthquake occurred at 07:34 local time (12:34 GMT) and was recorded at a depth of approximately 96 kilometers (60 miles), according to Colombia's geological service.
Nubia Carolina Córdoba, the governor of Chocó province, confirmed that there have been injuries but did not provide specific figures. She expressed concern about potential aftershocks that could exacerbate the situation. The epicenter of the earthquake was located just 5 kilometers east of the village of San José del Palmar, a region that has experienced seismic activity in the past.
Despite the quake's significant depth, its effects were felt across a wide area, including the capital city of Bogotá, which is hundreds of kilometers away from the epicenter. In Bogotá, several buildings were evacuated as a precautionary measure, and residents reported feeling the tremors strongly. Journalists broadcasting from the city noted that furniture was shaking in their studio, highlighting the quake's intensity.
In the coffee region of Colombia, particularly in the city of Manizales, reports emerged of severe structural damage. Footage shared by Colombian newspaper El Tiempo showed a collapsed building, with onlookers expressing fears that individuals may be trapped beneath the rubble. Additionally, a church spire was seen to have collapsed, and another building exhibited deep fissures in its façade.
The earthquake's impact extended to Colombia's aviation sector, with the national aviation authority reporting damage at several regional airports, including those in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago, and Buenaventura. The extent of the damage at these airports is still being assessed, but disruptions to air travel are expected as safety inspections are carried out.
This earthquake comes less than two months after a series of devastating twin earthquakes struck northern Venezuela, resulting in over 6,100 fatalities. The recent seismic activity in the region has raised concerns about the potential for further earthquakes and the readiness of local infrastructure to withstand such natural disasters.
Emergency services and local authorities are currently mobilizing to assess the damage and provide assistance to affected communities. The government has urged residents to remain vigilant and to prepare for possible aftershocks in the coming days.
As the situation develops, further updates will be provided regarding the extent of the damage and the ongoing response efforts by local and national authorities.