Colombia 7.4 magnitude earthquake kills about 250, over 42,000 missing

Published Aug 14, 08:36 AM UTC

A devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia on August 14, 2026, with the epicenter in San José del Palmar, Chocó Department. The quake, the strongest in decades, has killed approximately 250 people, with most fatalities in Pereira. Over 53,000 people are affected, 140 buildings completely collapsed, and tens of thousands of homes damaged. Around 4,200 people are missing. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with volunteers and official helpers searching rubble for survivors. President Abelardo de la Espriella announced an 'economic state of emergency' to access reconstruction funds. The article describes the chaotic scene at Parque La Libertad in Pereira, where a four-story building housing a bakery, pharmacy, and hotel for homeless people collapsed into a massive rubble heap. Rescuers use dogs and audio sensors to listen for signs of life, racing against the 72-hour survival window.

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