Situation Report: M7.4 Chocó Earthquake - 63 days after
63 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
63 days have passed since the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the department of Chocó on August 10, 2026. As of October 12, 2026, Colombian authorities maintain official figures at 326 deaths, 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 post-earthquake recovery phase. The strongest aftershock recorded since the main event reached a magnitude of 4.5.
The sustained decrease in the frequency and intensity of aftershocks suggests that the region is entering a phase of greater seismic stability, although authorities maintain continuous monitoring.
Infrastructure Damage
Material damages remain at critical levels. There are 10677 homes destroyed and 65841 homes damaged to varying degrees. Additionally, 127 buildings collapsed during the main earthquake and subsequent aftershocks.
Reconstruction efforts continue in multiple affected municipalities, with teams working on debris removal, structural assessment of damaged buildings, and construction of temporary shelters for displaced families.
Humanitarian Response
Search and rescue operations have given way to long-term humanitarian assistance programs. Organizations such as the Colombian Red Cross and international agencies continue to provide support to affected communities.
The 234 people who remain missing continue to be a priority for authorities. Families can report cases and search for information through specialized person-location platforms.
Institutional Coordination
The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management maintains coordination of response and recovery operations. The national government continues to implement special measures of economic and logistical support for affected areas.
Outlook
The absence of aftershocks in the last 24 hours is a positive sign, although experts warn that minor seismic events are still possible in the coming weeks and months. The recovery and reconstruction phase will extend for years, requiring sustained investment in resilient infrastructure and community support programs.
Authorities urge the population to maintain emergency preparedness and to follow structural safety recommendations for their homes.
