Situation Report: M7.4 Chocó Earthquake - 55 days after
55 days after the August 10, 2026 earthquake, official figures report 326 deaths, 4600 injured, and 234 missing. No aftershocks were recorded in the last 24 hours, indicating a continued decrease in seismic activity.
General Situation - October 4, 2026
55 days have passed since the magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the Chocó department on August 10, 2026. Colombian authorities maintain unchanged official casualty figures: 326 people deceased, 4600 injured, and 234 missing. The emergency continues to affect approximately 185500 people in the region.
Seismic Activity
For the first time in weeks, no aftershocks were recorded in the last 24 hours, according to data from the United States Geological Survey. This absence of seismic activity represents a significant milestone in the event's evolution, although experts warn that minor aftershocks are still possible in coming months. The strongest aftershock recorded since the main earthquake reached magnitude 4.5.
Infrastructure Damage
Material damage remains at critical levels. Official assessments count 10677 homes destroyed and 65841 homes damaged to varying degrees. Additionally, 127 buildings collapsed completely during the main seismic event and subsequent aftershocks.
Reconstruction efforts are advancing gradually, though the most remote communities in Chocó face significant logistical challenges in receiving materials and technical assistance.
Humanitarian Response
Humanitarian aid organizations maintain field operations. The Colombian Red Cross continues coordinating assistance efforts, while international agencies such as the World Food Programme and Direct Relief sustain the supply of essential resources.
The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management coordinates government operations for long-term recovery and reconstruction.
Search for Missing Persons
Efforts to locate the 234 people still missing continue, though with less intensity than in the immediate weeks after the disaster. Families can consult information on platforms such as Colombia Te Busca and Desaparecidos.co.
Outlook
The absence of aftershocks in the last day suggests the region may be entering a phase of greater seismic stability. However, humanitarian needs persist, especially regarding temporary housing and permanent reconstruction. Authorities urge the population to maintain safety protocols and preparedness for possible future seismic events.
For updated official information, consult the Presidency of the Republic and the Colombian Geological Service.
