Situation Report: M7.4 Chocó Earthquake - 67 days later
67 days after the August 10, 2026 earthquake, official figures report 326 deaths, 4600 injured, and 234 missing. 1 aftershock with magnitude 4.5 was recorded in the last 24 hours.
Impact Summary
67 days have passed since the magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the Chocó department on August 10, 2026. Official figures updated as of October 16, 2026 report 326 deaths, 4600 injured, and 234 missing.
Infrastructure Damage
The earthquake has left a devastating impact on regional infrastructure. 10677 homes have been destroyed and 65841 homes damaged across 30 affected municipalities. Additionally, 127 buildings collapsed during the main seismic event and subsequent aftershocks. The total number of people affected reaches 185500.
Recent Seismic Activity
Aftershock activity continues to gradually decline. In the last 24 hours, 1 aftershock was recorded, with a maximum magnitude of 4.5. This aftershock occurred today at 8:02 AM local time (13:02 UTC), located 51 km east-southeast of Juradó, Colombia, according to USGS data.
The overall trend shows a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of aftershocks compared to the weeks immediately following the main event. Experts continue monitoring the zone to detect any changes in seismic patterns.
Humanitarian Response
Response and recovery operations continue in the most affected areas. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management coordinates assistance efforts alongside national and international organizations.
The Colombian Red Cross maintains field operations, providing medical assistance, temporary shelter, and basic supplies to affected communities. Displaced families continue receiving support while medium and long-term housing solutions are developed.
Search for Missing Persons
Efforts to locate the 234 people still missing continue. Families can report cases and search for information through colombiatebusca.com and desaparecidos.co.
Reconstruction
National and local authorities are working on long-term reconstruction plans. The Ministry of Finance has implemented special customs measures to facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid and construction materials.
The recovery phase focuses on restoring basic services, rebuilding critical infrastructure, and supporting economic reactivation of the 30 affected municipalities in the region.
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*Last updated: October 16, 2026, 18:05 Bogotá time*
