Story perspectives

7.4-Magnitude Quake Kills 160+ in Colombia, U.S. Pledges $15.5 M Aid

8/12/2026

Summary

Espriella Declares Emergency

A magnitude-7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on Aug. 10, 2026, killing more than 160 people.
President Abelardo De La Espriella, sworn in three days earlier, declared a state of emergency.
Buildings and several hospitals collapsed in Cali, Pereira and Manizales, killing at least 18 in Pereira and two in Manizales.
Flights were suspended at airports in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago and Buenaventura.

Summary

U.S. Announces Aid

The United States announced a $15.5 million assistance package for Colombia, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio saying the U.S. stands ready to support the Colombian people.
Americares sent a team to Cali on Tuesday to provide emergency medical aid, clean-water supplies and hygiene kits, according to Colombia Country Director Diana Gutiérrez de Piñeres Botero.
Ecuador, Brazil and Mexico announced they are preparing specialized rescue personnel and equipment to aid Colombia’s recovery.

History

Historical Context

On 25 January 1999 a magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the Colombian cities of Armenia and Pereira, killing roughly 1,185 people. The quake occurred along the Córdoba-Navarco fault, part of the Romeral fault system that had not produced a comparable event in 16 years. That experience of large-scale loss and regional coordination shapes the multinational response to the 2026 Cali disaster.

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Espriella Declares Emergency

A magnitude-7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on Aug. 10, 2026, killing more than 160 people.
President Abelardo De La Espriella, sworn in three days earlier, declared a state of emergency.
Buildings and several hospitals collapsed in Cali, Pereira and Manizales, killing at least 18 in Pereira and two in Manizales.
Flights were suspended at airports in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago and Buenaventura.

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