Powerful Earthquake in Colombia Kills 77, Rescue Efforts Ongoing
A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 struck western Colombia near the city of San José del Palmar on August 10, 2026, resulting in at least 77 deaths. The quake caused severe damage in several cities, including Manizales and Cali, where over 25 buildings collapsed. Rescue teams continue intensive searches for survivors trapped under the rubble amid fears that the death toll may rise.
The mayor of Cali reported ongoing rescue operations as people remain trapped beneath destroyed structures. Social media footage shows desperate citizens calling out near the ruins, hoping to find loved ones alive. The earthquake also inflicted significant damage on regional airport infrastructure in Pereira, Armenia, and Quibdó.
This disaster comes just days after the inauguration of Colombia's new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, who has expressed pro-Israel views, including recognizing the Golan Heights as Israeli territory. The earthquake presents a major challenge for his administration early in his term.
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