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The number of dead and wounded is rising as the hours pass. Photo: Alejandro Meléndez

The earthquake in Colombia has now left 240 dead and more than 900 injured, with hospitals overwhelmed

Rescue teams continue searching for survivors as the emergency puts healthcare facilities in the worst-hit areas to the test.

Redacción Wednesday, August 12, 2026 / 12:11

The 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia has left 240 dead and more than 900 injured , according to the latest figures released Tuesday. Search efforts continue in the worst-affected areas after a catastrophe that caused dozens of buildings to collapse and damaged more than 1,500 homes.

Pereira remains one of the areas hardest hit by the earthquake. Emergency teams continue working among the rubble as Colombia tries to assess the extent of the damage, which has also affected Valle del Cauca, Chocó, and Caldas. Authorities have deployed rescue personnel and continue to assist those affected.

HOSPITALS FACE A HEAVY WORKLOAD

The emergency has also spread to hospitals and health centers, which are dealing with the arrival of hundreds of injured people. Some health centers have also suffered damage from the earthquake itself, further complicating their response capacity precisely when the demand for medical care has increased sharply.

Emergency medical services are working alongside search and rescue operations. The priority remains locating anyone who may still be trapped and treating the injured, while assessing the safety of hospitals, homes, and other damaged infrastructure.

BBVA SENDS 3,500 KITS TO THOSE AFFECTED

Humanitarian aid has also begun to arrive in the affected areas. BBVA has donated 3,500 kits of food and hygiene products for those affected by the earthquake in Colombia. The packages will be distributed in Chocó, Valle del Cauca, Risaralda, and Caldas.

The initiative aims to help meet the basic needs of affected families at a time when rescue efforts and healthcare are ongoing. Colombia is also receiving international support and specialized teams to address the earthquake’s aftermath.

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