Earthquake in Chocó leads government to declare national disaster
More than 70 people lost their lives and the Army deployed five rescue platoons
On August 10, 2026, an earthquake with its epicenter in Chocó caused more than 70 deaths in the country. Facing the seriousness of the situation, the National Government declared a national disaster, activating emergency response mechanisms.
National disaster declaration
The measure was announced during the Extraordinary Committee for Disaster Management, chaired by Abelardo de la Espriella, with the participation of the Colombian Association of Capital Cities (Asocapitales). The declaration allows the mobilization of federal resources and coordinated support from authorities.
Victims and capital cities
According to Asocapitales, 29 of the victims are from capital cities, reflecting the impact on the most significant urban areas. Authorities continue assessing the total extent of the impacts.
Asocapitales communication
The association maintains constant contact with the mayors of the capital cities and their teams, seeking direct information on the evolution of the emergency, priority needs, and the most affected areas.
Mobilization of Army platoons
The Army reported that five platoons, comprising more than 180 soldiers specialized in search and rescue, were enlisted to support the operations. Each platoon includes a canine search pair, totaling five dog teams.
Search and rescue equipment
The military has drones, thermal cameras, motion sensors, tripods, stretchers, small baskets, and tools for debris removal. These resources enable operations in collapsed structures, vertical rescue, confined environments, building stabilization, and pre‑hospital care.
Platoon distribution
The plan foresees the dispatch of three platoons to the Coffee Axis, one to the Chocó department, and one to Cali. The platoon that was in Bogotá received orders to move via the Military Air Transport Command (CATAM) toward Cali.
With information from El Tiempo.
Source: El Tiempo