7.4 quake leaves dozens of buildings collapsed in Cali

On August 10, 2026, a magnitude‑7.4 earthquake shook Colombia at 7:34 a.m., creating a severe humanitarian situation in Cali. The quake caused the collapse of dozens of buildings, leaving people trapped under concrete debris.

Collapse of structures and people trapped

According to the latest official report from local authorities, at least 20 buildings have completely collapsed or had their façades massively detached. The most recent bulletin from the Cali City Hall indicates that 25 structures are collapsed, with people still trapped in the debris.

Authorities request support from Bogotá and Medellín

Cali’s mayor, Alejandro Eder, said he has already contacted the cities of Bogotá and Medellín asking for assistance and the deployment of rescue teams. He urged the public to promptly report any damage, especially in the eastern parts of the city, on the slopes and in other sectors.

Response of security forces and the hospital

The department’s governor, Dilian Francisca Toro, reported that she is at the Valle University Hospital, where some sectors have collapsed and people remain trapped. Firefighters and the Army have already been mobilized to carry out evacuations and search for survivors.

Fatalities and damage in neighboring municipalities

Four deaths have been confirmed, including three children, in the municipality of Calima El Darién, where a wall collapsed. One person also died in Zarzal. In addition, significant damage was recorded in Buenaventura, Riofrío and again in Calima El Darién.

Ongoing assessment and need for information

Authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage and ask the public to help by sending information about what occurred, especially in the most affected areas of the city.

With information from El Tiempo.