Major Earthquake in Western Colombia Disrupts Infrastructure and Air Travel

According to reports from Khaosod Online Thailand, citing AP and Reuters, a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia’s western Chocó province on the morning of August 10, 2026. Local officials have confirmed that the death toll has risen to at least 254, with 1,495 individuals reported injured. Emergency response teams are currently working to locate more than 3,000 people who remain missing beneath the rubble.

The seismic event has caused significant damage to infrastructure across the region. Nearly 5,000 homes have been damaged, with many completely destroyed. Crucially for travelers and residents, the Civil Aviation Authority has ordered the immediate closure of six airports: Quibdó, Pereira, Manizales, Armenia, Cartago, and Buenaventura, due to structural damage. Furthermore, essential services including electricity, water supply, healthcare systems, and telecommunications remain disrupted, particularly in the Chocó province near the epicenter.

For those currently in or planning to travel to western Colombia, the situation remains critical. Travelers should expect severe delays and cancellations, as air travel in the affected areas is currently suspended. It remains to be confirmed how long these infrastructure disruptions will persist and when the affected airports will be deemed safe for operations. Authorities are continuing their search and rescue efforts, and further updates regarding the status of essential services are expected as the situation evolves.