Situation Report: M7.4 Chocó Earthquake - 56 days later
56 days after the August 10 earthquake, official figures remain at 326 deaths, 4600 injured, and 234 missing. No aftershocks were recorded in the last 24 hours, indicating continued decline in seismic activity.
General Situation
56 days have passed since the magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the Chocó department on August 10, 2026. As of October 5, 2026, official figures remain unchanged: 326 people deceased, 4600 injured, and 234 missing.
Seismic Activity
For the first time in weeks, no aftershocks were recorded in the last 24 hours, according to USGS data. This absence of seismic activity represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the seismic event, although experts warn that minor aftershocks are still possible in the coming months.
The strongest aftershock recorded since the main earthquake remains at magnitude 4.5. During the last week of September, multiple aftershocks of magnitude 4.6 and 4.8 were documented near Sipí, Roncesvalles, and San Antonio.
Infrastructure Impact
Documented material damages include:
- 10677 homes destroyed - 65841 homes damaged - 127 buildings collapsed - 185500 people affected
Reconstruction efforts continue in the most affected areas, with engineering teams assessing the structural stability of damaged buildings.
Humanitarian Response
Search and rescue operations have formally concluded, but authorities maintain active information channels for missing persons through colombiatebusca.com and desaparecidos.co.
The Colombian Red Cross continues providing humanitarian assistance to affected communities, while international organizations such as the World Food Programme maintain their presence in the region.
Institutional Coordination
The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management coordinates long-term recovery efforts. The national government has implemented special economic and customs support measures to facilitate reconstruction.
Outlook
The absence of aftershocks in the last 24 hours is a positive sign, although seismologists from the Colombian Geological Service maintain continuous monitoring of the area. Authorities urge the population to remain prepared for possible future seismic events.
The emergency phase has given way to a recovery and reconstruction period expected to take several years. The focus is now on rehabilitating critical infrastructure and providing psychosocial support to affected communities.
