Magnitude 7.4 Earthquake Damages Historic Architecture Across Colombia

On August 10, 2026, a strong earthquake struck Colombia, registering 7.4 on the Richter scale. The quake's epicenter was about 96 kilometers deep near San José del Palmar in Chocó province, as reported by the Servicio Geológico Colombiano (SGC). So far, 111 people have lost their lives, and that number could rise. In light of the disaster, Colombia has announced a national state of emergency, impacting large cities like Bogotá and Medellín and causing significant damage in regions such as Chocó, Valle del Cauca, Cauca, and the Coffee Region. President Abelardo de la Espriella mentioned that 1,575 homes were affected, with 37 completely destroyed, alongside extensive damage to hospitals and schools.