Colombia earthquake: 35 dead, 188 missing in Valle del Cauca

A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on August 10, 2026, causing widespread devastation in the Valle del Cauca department, particularly in Cali. President Abelardo de la Espriella, alongside Cali's mayor Alejandro Eder and Governor Dilian Francisca Toro, reported 35 fatalities, approximately 700 injured, and 188 missing in the region Source: El Tiempo. The president emphasized that the missing persons are the government's primary concern, with search and rescue efforts concentrated on locating them Source: La República.

Infrastructure damage

The earthquake severely damaged public infrastructure. Three hospitals in Cali collapsed completely, and 18 others sustained structural damage, straining the city's healthcare capacity. Additionally, 39 educational centers were affected, and around 5,000 homes were damaged or collapsed Source: Portafolio. The Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport resumed normal operations on Monday night after overcoming electrical failures, though some airlines had to cancel or reschedule flights Source: Portafolio.

Security and response

In response to looting and public order issues, the government imposed a curfew in Cali from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. and deployed over 1,000 troops to protect citizens and property Source: Infobae. A contingent of 228 rescuers with search dogs and 105 military engineers arrived to assist in the search for the missing Source: La República. The government also announced a housing action plan, providing subsidies for affected families to relocate temporarily while home recovery efforts proceed Source: El Tiempo.

Nationally, preliminary reports from Asocapitales indicate 132 deaths and over 570 injuries across various capitals, with Pereira, Cali, and Quibdó among the hardest hit Source: Infobae.