Current responses /
Colombia
Following a powerful earthquake in western Colombia, GER³ is supporting early recovery while assessing longer-term needs.
Damage in Colombia following the August 10, 2026 earthquake. Photo: World Central Kitchen/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0. Cropped by GER³.
Emergency in Colombia
A powerful earthquake has caused widespread damage across Colombia. Help GER³ assess needs and support affected communities.
Overview
On 10 August 2026, a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, with its epicenter near San José del Palmar in Chocó, causing widespread damage across communities throughout the region. Homes, schools, healthcare facilities and other essential infrastructure were damaged, leaving families displaced and communities facing significant challenges as they begin to recover.
GER³ has been working in affected areas including Cali and Valle del Cauca, Quibdó and Chocó on the Pacific coast, and the Eje Cafetero. Through assessments, coordination with local partners and early recovery activities, the team is identifying priority needs and where GER³’s technical expertise can have the greatest impact.
General focus areas
Emergency needs assessments
GER³ continues to assess damage and priority needs while coordinating with government authorities, humanitarian partners and affected communities to inform early recovery and potential reconstruction support.
Assessments have highlighted needs related to damaged housing, debris management, schools and other critical infrastructure, as well as the economic impact on households whose livelihoods have been disrupted by the earthquake.
Temporary shelter support
In Altos de Santa Elena, a low-income housing community in Cali’s Comuna 18, GER³ is working with local partners to provide temporary roofing and shade materials for families living near damaged and condemned homes.
The support is helping provide protection from intense sun and heavy rainfall while families navigate displacement and uncertainty following the earthquake.
Recovery and reconstruction planning
GER³ is developing its early recovery and reconstruction approach around priorities including critical infrastructure rehabilitation, debris management and the safe reuse of materials where appropriate.
The team is also exploring opportunities to support earthquake-affected schools, helping communities restore access to education while strengthening resilience to future hazards.
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