- Earthquake struck Manizales, Colombia, on Monday, Aug. 10, 2026, causing building collapses.
A powerful earthquake struck Manizales, Colombia, on August 10, 2026, causing significant destruction and casualties. The quake, which occurred shortly after the inauguration of President Abelardo De La Espriella, has left many trapped under rubble and has raised alarms about the region's seismic risks.1
The earthquake knocked down buildings across several cities, with reports indicating that rescue operations are underway to locate and assist those trapped. This disaster follows devastating twin quakes in Venezuela just two months prior, which resulted in over 6,000 fatalities.
Latin America is known for its vulnerability to seismic activity, sitting atop a complex network of fault lines. The region has a history of some of the world’s most destructive earthquakes, making this latest event a stark reminder of the ongoing risks faced by its inhabitants.
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as aftershocks may follow, complicating rescue efforts and increasing the danger for those still trapped. The full extent of the damage and the death toll is still being assessed, but initial reports indicate a tragic loss of life and significant infrastructure damage.
“The earthquake caused a building to collapse in Manizales, as seen in an AP photo. The timeline of Latin America's deadliest earthquakes highlights the region's seismic vulnerability, with past quakes claiming thousands of lives.”
