Colombia earthquake death toll climbs to 164 as rescue efforts continue

Nexus Europa Newsroom
Posted Aug 17, 2026, 07:00 AM UTC · In the digest of 2026-08-17-0700
Colombia earthquake death toll climbs to 164 as rescue efforts continue
Photo: Ziarul de Gardă

Rescue teams in Colombia search for survivors as the confirmed death toll from a magnitude 7.4 earthquake reaches at least 164.

Search and rescue operations continue in Colombia following a magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck near San José del Palmar, causing widespread structural damage and triggering a national state of emergency. Tremors were also felt in neighbouring Ecuador.

Casualty estimates have climbed as emergency teams reach affected areas. While early updates cited 20 deaths, subsequent reporting placed the toll at at least 132 dead and over 500 injured, with later figures reaching at least 164 fatalities.

Military personnel and rescue workers continue searching the rubble for survivors, while authorities arrange shelter and humanitarian aid for displaced residents.

Sources: Adevărul, Digi24, HotNews, Moldova1, Ziarul de Gardă.

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