Chocó M7.4 Earthquake: Day 58 - Seismic activity continues with M4.4 aftershock
58 days after the August 10 earthquake, 1 aftershock was recorded in the last 24 hours with a maximum magnitude of 4.4. Official figures remain at 326 deaths, 4600 injured, and 234 missing. More than 185500 people continue to be affected.
General Situation
As of October 7, 2026, 58 days have passed since the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the department of Chocó on August 10. Seismic activity continues in the region, although with less frequency than in the weeks immediately following the main event.
Recent Seismic Activity
In the last 24 hours, 1 aftershock with a magnitude greater than 3.0 has been recorded. The most significant aftershock reached a magnitude of 4.4, occurring 21 km southwest of Roncesvalles in the early hours of October 7. This level of activity represents a notable decrease compared to the first weeks following the main shock.
Experts from the Colombian Geological Survey continue to monitor the area and remind the population that aftershocks can continue for months after a seismic event of this magnitude.
Casualty Figures
Consolidated official figures remain at:
- 326 deaths - 4600 injured - 234 missing
Authorities continue working on victim identification and searching for missing persons. Families can consult information at colombiatebusca.com and desaparecidos.co.
Infrastructure Damage
Documented material damages include:
- 10677 homes destroyed - 65841 homes with structural damage - 127 buildings collapsed - 185500 people affected
These figures reflect the devastating impact of the earthquake on the region's housing infrastructure, particularly in rural areas and vulnerable communities in Chocó.
Humanitarian Response
The Colombian Red Cross and international organizations such as the World Food Programme continue to provide assistance to affected communities. Humanitarian aid operations focus on providing temporary shelter, drinking water, food, and medical care.
Direct Relief maintains active operations supplying medicines and medical equipment to the most affected areas.
Reconstruction
National and local authorities are working on medium and long-term reconstruction plans. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management coordinates efforts with departmental and municipal governments for the recovery of affected areas.
Housing reconstruction and rehabilitation of basic services continue to be priorities, with special attention to earthquake-resistant construction standards to reduce vulnerability to future seismic events.
Recommendations
Authorities remind the population to keep emergency kits ready, identify safe zones in their homes and workplaces, and stay alert to official information from sources such as the Colombian Geological Survey and the Presidency of the Republic.
