馃晵 Created

Colombia experiences its worst earthquake of the 21st century as the administration manages reconstruction efforts across 16 departments

The National Risk Management Unit (UNGRD) reported that a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Colombia on August 10, 2026, leaving 331 people dead, 4,505 injured, and 111 missing. The quake, classified as the third most powerful in the country's history, affected 16 departments and 498 municipalities, impacting 466,709 people across 296,738 families. Significant damage occurred in the departments of Choc贸, Valle del Cauca, and Risaralda. In Cali, the mayor reported 154 deaths and estimated reconstruction costs at 10 trillion pesos. In Pereira, 99 fatalities were occurred and 35,263 homes were damaged. The administration announced a reconstruction plan for Caldas and a Miracle Fund to manage resources for humanitarian assistance. President Abelardo de la Espriella announced housing improvements for Risaralda and a Marshall Plan for Choc贸. The UNGRD reported that 36,326 homes were destroyed and 6,005 buildings were were affected, including 4,313 schools. The administration also established a Miracle Fund through a decree to manage reconstruction resources.

Sources