Colombia declares national disaster due to 7.4 earthquake

Published at: 10/08/2026 02:39 PM

The Government of Colombia declared a national disaster after the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that shook the west of the country, with the objective of accelerating the mobilization of resources and assistance to devastated areas.

Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella signed the decree, a decision that makes it possible to reallocate budgetary allocations, activate international cooperation mechanisms and coordinate the Military Forces in response efforts, Red Digital reported.

The official balance sheet so far confirmed 111 fatalities throughout the territory, while relief agencies continue to remove debris from collapsed buildings.

The departments of Chocó, Risaralda, Valle del Cauca and the Coffee Region have the greatest impact, where the distribution of medicines, food, drinking water and heavy machinery is prioritized.

The hospital network in Pereira, Manizales and Cali activated emergency protocols to treat hundreds of injured people with fractures, injuries and nervous breakdowns.

The Food Bank of Colombia established a humanitarian corridor to transport food, water and hygiene kits to affected families.

Venezuela offered to send specialized rescue teams, adding to the solidarity of other Latin American countries willing to support the emergency.

Mazo News Team