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The devastating earthquake of 7.4 magnitude that occurred in the South American country of Colombia on the morning of August 10, 2026, has caused massive devastation in the entire country. The earthquake was so strong that multi-storey buildings, church towers and public infrastructure in many major cities of western and central Colombia were razed to the ground like cards. Initial reports put the death toll at over 50, but as bodies are being pulled from the debris, local officials say the death toll has crossed 130 and more than 600 people are seriously injured. Seeing the seriousness of the situation, newly elected President Abelardo de la Espriella has declared a 'National Disaster State' across the country. Epicenter, depth and major cities affected According to the US Geological Survey (USGS) and the Colombian Geological Service, the earthquake occurred at 7:34 am local time. Its center was recorded at a depth of about 107 to 110 kilometers from the ground near San José del Palmar, located in the Chocó province of western Colombia. Although the earthquake was at a great depth, its intensity was so severe that its effects were felt throughout the country, including the capital Bogota and neighboring countries Panama and Ecuador. The greatest damage was recorded in the provinces of Chocó, Rizaralda and Valle del Cauca: Pereira: More than 60 people lost their lives here due to debris and partial collapse of buildings. Part of the city's Matekana International Airport collapsed and several people were trapped in cable cars. Cali: At least 25 buildings completely collapsed in Cali, Colombia's third-largest city, trapping dozens of people under debris. Manizales: A tower of the city's famous 'Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary' collapsed and a 4-storey building was reduced to debris. San José del Palmar and El Cairo: Up to 80% of homes and buildings in these towns, located near the epicenter, were damaged or completely destroyed. Relief and rescue operations and thousands of people feared missing Immediately after the earthquake, the National Risk and Disaster Management Unit (UNGRD) and relief agencies were engaged in relief and rescue operations on a war footing. In dozens of affected cities, life is being searched under the debris with the help of sniffer dogs, heavy machinery and drones. According to the missing persons tracking system, more than 2,800 people are still reported missing or uncontacted. In many areas, communication networks, power lines and drinking water supply have come to a complete standstill. Presidential Statement and International Aid Initiative Colombia's President Abelardo de la Espriella, addressing reporters in Bogota after an emergency meeting, said the government is sending relief materials, medical equipment and rescue teams to the affected areas at its full capacity. Several other countries, including Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino, have assured to send logistics and humanitarian aid to Colombia. Due to more than 30 dynamic aftershocks being recorded after the main shock, there is great panic among the people and lakhs of citizens are forced to stay in open fields and roads throughout the night.