A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Colombia's Choco province on the Pacific coast, causing buildings to collapse and sending residents fleeing for their lives. The quake, which hit near El Cairo region, has resulted in injuries and severe structural damage, particularly in the provincial capital Quibdo.
Epicenter and Impact
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the earthquake's epicenter was located near San Jose del Palmar at a depth of 79 kilometers. The tremor was felt strongly across the region, with dramatic footage showing people running as a building crumbles around them.
Governor Nubia Carolina Cordoba-Curi confirmed injuries and significant damage in Quibdo, the worst-affected area. Several individuals are believed to be trapped under huge concrete blocks, and rescue efforts are underway.
Official Response
Governor Cordoba-Curi wrote on X: "We have just experienced a severe seismic event in the department of Chocó. We are concerned about aftershocks. Although the epicenter was in San José del Palmar, in the capital Quibdó there are injuries and severe damage to buildings. We are already conducting the damage assessment to issue the first official report."
Cali mayor Alejandro Eder reported that at least 20 buildings have collapsed, with people trapped inside. The full extent of casualties is still being assessed.
Widespread Effects
The earthquake disrupted daily life across multiple cities. In Bogota, families preparing for work and school fled their homes during breakfast. Damage was reported in Manizales, where the famous Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Rosary is said to be at risk of collapse. Evacuations were also ordered in the coastal city of Medellin.
Tremors were felt across the border in Ecuador's capital, Quito, though no major damage has been reported there.
Regional Context
This earthquake comes less than two months after a deadly quake devastated Venezuela on June 24. That event flattened buildings in Caracas and the state of La Guaira, where nearly all structures were destroyed. As of August, more than 6,100 people have been confirmed dead from those quakes, with tens of thousands still missing and many hospitalized.
Authorities in Colombia are urging residents to remain vigilant for aftershocks and to follow safety protocols as rescue and assessment operations continue.
