Colombia Earthquake: This One Hit Close to Home for Our Team

Unfortunately, at least 312 lives have been lost following the devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia on August 10, 2026. Thousands more have been injured, hundreds remain unaccounted for, and families and communities are facing unimaginable loss. Our hearts go out to everyone mourning a loved one, waiting for news, or beginning the difficult process of recovery.

This one hit especially close to our hearts because we have team members in Colombia. When the news broke, it wasn't an abstract headline for our team. It meant checking on colleagues, families, friends, and communities we care about.

What Actually Happened

The quake struck at 7:34 a.m. local time near San José del Palmar in the department of Chocó. At magnitude 7.4, it was the strongest earthquake recorded in Colombia in the 21st century and was felt across the region, including neighboring countries.

Cities including Cali, Pereira, Quibdó, and Manizales experienced significant impacts. Homes and infrastructure were damaged, landslides made some of the hardest-hit communities difficult to reach, and aftershocks continued following the initial earthquake.

Colombia declared three days of national mourning as search, rescue, and relief efforts continued. Across the country, Colombians stepped forward to donate blood, food, supplies, and other assistance to affected communities.

If You're Looking to Help

Organizations including Direct Relief and Americares are supporting medical and humanitarian response efforts in affected communities, alongside Colombian authorities and local organizations providing shelter, food, supplies, and other critical assistance.

Closer to Home

For us, this is ultimately about the people behind the numbers: families who have lost loved ones, homes, and the stability they had before August 10. Our team members on the ground are helping however they can, and our thoughts are with everyone in Colombia as recovery continues.