Colombia · DISASTER
Key Facts
- —Death toll 329 dead and 247 missing, according to UNGRD on 22 August 2026.
- —Magnitude 7.4 moment magnitude, measured by USGS and Colombian Geological Service.
- —Epicentre Near San José del Palmar, department of Chocó, 3-5 km from town.
- —Date Struck morning of 10 August 2026 in western Colombia.
- —Early toll On 10 August, about 111-132 dead and scores to 570 injured.
Twelve days on, the count is still moving, and 247 people have not been found.
The Colombia earthquake has claimed 329 lives and left 247 people missing, according to the latest official count. The figures come from Colombia’s National Unit for Disaster Risk Management, the UNGRD, reported on 22 August 2026.
The count has risen steadily since the quake.
The Colombia Earthquake in Numbers
The Colombia earthquake struck on the morning of 10 August 2026 in western Colombia. Its magnitude was 7.4, measured as moment magnitude by the United States Geological Survey and the Colombian Geological Service.
The epicentre was near San José del Palmar, in the department of Chocó, about three to five kilometres from the town. As of 22 August, the UNGRD reported 329 dead and 247 missing.
How the Toll Has Evolved
On the first day, 10 August, the toll was put at about 111 to 132 dead, with scores to about 570 injured. However, the numbers have changed as more information came in.
By 12 August, the US Embassy cited UNGRD figures of 181 dead, 2,754 injured and 189 missing. The same day, President Abelardo de la Espriella gave 265 dead, 496 missing and 3,494 injured.
On 13 August, Al Jazeera and Reuters reported 265 dead, nearly 500 missing and more than 3,500 injured. By 16 August, official estimates cited by Reuters gave around 290 dead, more than 140 missing and 4,200 injured.
Why the Numbers Differ
The differing counts come from different bodies counting at different moments. For example, the missing figure has moved up and down as people were found or newly reported.
Therefore, the latest verified injured count is from 16 August, with more than 4,200 injured. Meanwhile, the death toll has continued to climb.
Understanding Moment Magnitude
A moment magnitude is the modern measure of an earthquake’s total energy. Each whole number is about 32 times more energy released.
Each whole number on the scale means about 32 times more energy released.
The Epicentre and Region
The epicentre was near San José del Palmar, in the department of Chocó, about three to five kilometres from the town. Chocó is a western department of Colombia, known for its rugged terrain.
The quake’s location in a remote area has likely complicated response efforts. Still, the official toll continues to be updated.
Official Response and Reporting
The UNGRD is the main agency providing official figures. Reports from Reuters and Al Jazeera have tracked the evolving numbers.
In addition, the US Embassy has cited UNGRD figures, showing international attention. The Colombian president has also given his own counts.
The Human Impact
The Colombia earthquake has caused a significant loss of life. With 329 dead and 247 missing, many families are affected.
The injured count, as of 16 August, was more than 4,200. This shows the scale of the disaster.
Looking Ahead
The toll may still change as search and rescue operations continue. However, no current status of those operations has been verified.
Meanwhile, the focus remains on the affected communities in Chocó. The Colombia earthquake has left a deep mark on the region.
How to Help
For those wishing to assist, official channels like the UNGRD may provide guidance. However, no specific aid information is available at this time.
In short, the priority is supporting the survivors and the families of the missing. The Colombia earthquake is a tragedy that requires solidarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest death toll from the Colombia earthquake?
The latest official toll, from the UNGRD on 22 August 2026, is 329 dead and 247 missing. This figure has risen from earlier counts.
Where did the Colombia earthquake strike?
The earthquake struck near San José del Palmar, in the department of Chocó, western Colombia. The epicentre was about three to five kilometres from the town.
How strong was the Colombia earthquake?
The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.4, measured as moment magnitude. This was confirmed by the US Geological Survey and the Colombian Geological Service.
Why do the reported numbers for the Colombia earthquake vary?
Different agencies have reported different numbers at different times. The missing count has fluctuated as people are found or newly reported.
Connected Coverage
Sources: UNGRD; USGS; Reuters; Al Jazeera.
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