At least 26 dead after powerful 7.4 earthquake knocks down multiple buildings in Colombia

According to the agency, it struck with an estimated depth of 110km.

At least 20 buildings are reported to have collapsed in the city of Cali, trapping several people inside, Mayor Alejandro Eder said.

Colombia's President Abelardo De La Espriella announced he has personally taking charge of the emergency response.

Mr de la Espriella, who was sworn into the country's top role just days ago, wrote on X: "I have ordered the establishment of a Unified Command Post to coordinate the response to the damage and assist those affected."

"I will also be in Pereira in person to stand with those affected and monitor the government’s response.

"You are not alone. The Government is here and taking action."

Multiple buildings collapsed in the earthquake

REUTERS

The earthquake in COlombia struck at 7.34am local time

REUTERS

Rescue efforts are currently underway to clear the rubble and rescue those still trapped in the collapsed buildings.

Six airports across the country have halted operations until further notice.

Mr Eder said he has requested support from the mayor of Bogota and the mayor of Medellin.

He told his citizens to remain calm and check for structural damage to their homes, saying: "If you don't feel safe, if you see very large cracks, please exit the building."

Rescue efforts are underway to help people trapped by the rubble

REUTERS

USGS shake map of the Colombia earthquake

USGS

In an update just before 5pm, Britain's Foreign Office issued a travel warning to Britons in or travelling to the country.

It said: "On the morning of Monday August 10, Colombia suffered an earthquake affecting large parts of the country.

"Initial reports indicate a magnitude of 7.4 with its epicentre near San José del Palmar in the department of Chocó in the West of Colombia (approximately 90km from Bogotá).

"Expect potential disruption to travel and airport closures. Wider infrastructure and roads may be affected.

"If you’re in Colombia, follow the advice of local authorities, stay away from damaged buildings and plan ahead.
The following airports are currently closed: La Nubia Airport (Manizales), Matecaña International Airport (Pereira), El Edén International Airport (Armenia), El Caraño Airport (Quibdó), Santa Ana Airport (Cartago), Gerardo Tobar López Airport (Buenaventura).

"Get real-time information (in Spanish) following an earthquake from: National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) and Colombia’s Geological Services.

"Be aware of the possibility of earthquake aftershocks."

Manizales Cathedral's clock tower was damaged and a huge crack appeared on its wall in the aftermath of an earthquake

REUTERS

The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Chocó Department, except for the department capital Quibdó, the towns of Nuquí and Bahía Solano and Capurganá.

The Colombian Geological Service confirmed the earthquake today is the strongest recorded in the country in the last decade.

"So far, two aftershocks have been recorded, with magnitudes of 2.8 and 4.8, the latter being widely felt," the service said.

The agency promised to provide "official and timely information as new data become available".