Geography
Colombia earthquake kills at least 12, rescue efforts underway in hard-hit regions
What happened
Rescuers are racing against time to find survivors after a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck south-west Colombia on 11 August 2026, killing at least 12 people and trapping others under rubble. Local authorities report widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure, with emergency teams deployed across Nariño, Cauca, and Valle del Cauca departments.
Key facts
The earthquake measured 6.8 on the Richter scale, according to the Colombian Geological Service (SGC).
At least 12 fatalities have been confirmed, with dozens injured and unknown numbers trapped under debris.
Emergency teams from Nariño, Cauca, and Valle del Cauca departments are leading rescue efforts.
Reports indicate collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and power outages in affected areas.
The quake struck at 14:07 local time (19:07 UTC) on 11 August 2026.
Context
Colombia lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region prone to seismic activity due to tectonic plate movements. The Andes mountain range in western Colombia is particularly vulnerable to earthquakes. Colombia's National System for Disaster Risk Management (SNGRD) coordinates emergency responses to natural disasters. Earthquakes in Colombia often trigger landslides in mountainous areas, complicating rescue operations.