Situation Report: 50 days after the M7.4 Chocó earthquake
50 days after the August 10 earthquake, official figures report 326 deaths, 4600 injured, and 234 missing. Seismic activity continues with 1 aftershock recorded in the last 24 hours.
General overview
50 days have passed since the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the department of Chocó on August 10, 2026. Official figures remain at 326 deaths, 4600 injured, and 234 missing. Material devastation includes 10677 homes destroyed, 65841 homes damaged, and 127 buildings collapsed, affecting approximately 185500 people.
Recent seismic activity
The region continues to experience residual seismic activity. In the last 24 hours, 1 aftershock was recorded, with a maximum magnitude of 4.5. Although the frequency of aftershocks has decreased significantly since the weeks immediately following the main event, seismologists warn that activity may continue for months.
The most recent magnitude 4.5 aftershock occurred 15 km southwest of San Antonio. Authorities from the Colombian Geological Service continue to monitor the area and maintain active early warning systems to protect affected communities.
Humanitarian situation
The magnitude of the disaster continues to represent a significant challenge for authorities and humanitarian organizations. With more than 185500 people affected, recovery efforts focus on providing temporary shelter, ongoing medical care, and psychosocial support to devastated communities.
The 10677 completely destroyed homes and 65841 damaged homes have left tens of thousands of families homeless or in precarious conditions. Reconstruction programs are advancing, but the process will be long and will require sustained resources from both the national government and international cooperation.
Missing persons
The 234 people who remain missing continue to be a priority for authorities. Families can report cases and search for information through platforms such as colombiatebusca.com and desaparecidos.co, which coordinate search and family reunification efforts.
Institutional response
The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management maintains coordination operations in the field. The Colombian Red Cross continues to provide humanitarian assistance, while international organizations such as the World Food Programme and Direct Relief maintain their logistical and medical support.
The Ministry of Finance has implemented special economic support measures for the affected region, facilitating the import of construction materials and emergency equipment.
Outlook
Seven weeks after the disaster, the acute emergency phase has given way to a long-term recovery process. Authorities emphasize that reconstruction must incorporate improved earthquake-resistant standards to reduce vulnerability to future seismic events.
For updated information on the main event, consult the USGS executive report. Aftershock data is available in the USGS query system.
