Deadly Colombia earthquake: Rescuers race against time, find survivors amidst rubble

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, August 10, 2026, leading to a national period of mourning. The devastating tremor, considered the strongest to hit the country in a century, caused widespread destruction, flattening buildings and damaging infrastructure across cities like Cali, Pereira, and Manizales. Initial reports indicate at least 200 fatalities, over 2,500 injured, and more than 4,100 people unaccounted for, prompting President Abelardo de la Espriella to declare a national emergency.

Emergency workers, including soldiers, firefighters, and volunteers, are engaged in a critical race against time to locate and rescue individuals trapped beneath collapsed structures. These efforts have yielded successes, with rescuers pulling a 32-year-old woman, Daniela Largo, alive from the rubble in Pereira on Tuesday. Additionally, a baby was safely extracted from debris in Cali following a bystander's crucial call for silence during the search.

The disaster has also seen over 100 aftershocks, further complicating rescue operations and forcing many survivors to seek shelter outdoors. International support is also being mobilized to assist Colombia in its extensive recovery and humanitarian response.