On 10 August 2026, a major earthquake struck western Colombia. Fourteen departments and 357 municipalities were affected. The situation is particularly critical in Chocó and in the departments of Valle del Cauca, Risaralda, Caldas and Quindío. Access to electricity, water, healthcare and communication services has been partially disrupted in several areas. Numerous homes have been damaged or destroyed.

The affected population urgently requires safe emergency shelter, medical care, psychosocial support, drinking water, hygiene items, food assistance and functioning communication services. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), together with the Colombian Red Cross, is coordinating a comprehensive emergency relief and recovery operation.

The response includes multipurpose cash assistance and, where necessary, rental support, as well as the distribution of household items and relief supplies. It also covers the safe repair and restoration of damaged shelters. Additional measures include support for search and rescue operations, first aid, triage, patient transport, mobile health services, medical equipment, temporary health points and psychosocial support. Water, sanitation and hygiene activities, family reunification services and emergency telecommunications complement the assistance provided.

In total, approximately 24,000 of the most severely affected people will receive rapid, safe and needs-based support. Particular attention is being given to injured individuals, separated families, households whose homes have been destroyed or rendered unsafe, and communities experiencing disruptions to essential services.