At least 169 people in Colombia died after a 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit the western part of the country Monday, leaving many still trapped in buildings and underneath rubble as of Tuesday morning.
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella, inaugurated Friday, said in a public statement that the earthquake injured around 700 people and damaged or destroyed around 5,000 homes. He declared a national disaster and reported 188 people missing, three hospitals collapsed, and 18 other hospitals as well as 39 schools left damaged.
Seven airports in the area suspended operations, according to NBC News.
People started recording missing loved ones on digital databases Monday, and, by late afternoon, one database had more than 2,000 people missing, mostly in Cali and Pereira.
The city of Pereira, one of the hardest cities hit, lost all power, leaving the city dark while rescue teams continued to search for survivors, according to CBS News.
This is the WORST Earthquake footage I have ever seen pray for Columbia🙏 pic.twitter.com/xg89rPbZ2O
— Fixer Guy (@Fixerguy) August 10, 2026
The epicenter of the earthquake was in San Jose Del Palmar, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Colombia's Geological Service said the earthquake was the strongest recorded in the country in the 21st century.
The earthquake followed two earthquakes in Venezuela in late June, which measured at 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude. (RELATED: State Of Emergency Declared, Casualties Confirmed After Double Earthquake Devastates Venezuela)
The U.S. Department of State pledged $15.5 million in emergency funding to help Colombia.
"Following today's devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake across various regions in Colombia, the Trump Administration is committing $15.5 million in funding for emergency shelter, food, protection, and earthquake assessments," the Department of State said Monday evening in a post on X.
Following today’s devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake across various regions in Colombia, the Trump Administration is committing .5 million in funding for emergency shelter, food, protection, and earthquake assessments.
— Department of State (@StateDept) August 10, 2026
We are united in prayer with the Colombian people and…
Pope Leo XIV offered prayers for all affected by the earthquake.
Mexico, Venezuela, Brazil, and Ecuador also offered aid to Colombia.
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