A devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on August 10, 2026 – collapsing or damaging over 1,600 buildings and claiming over 200 lives. 

Thousands of people are injured and over 3,000 are still missing.

Rescuers are not giving up and continue to search day and night through rubble, some with their bare hands, for survivors as they enter the critical 72-hour window following the disaster. 

National Police of Colombia are even using sniffer dogs to help find those trapped beneath the debris. They are also helping displaced animals like a dehydrated kitten. They wrote, “In the midst of this emergency that is shaking the country, a small kitten that was disoriented was rescued, it was thirsty and needed help. In moments like these, they also feel fear, they seek refuge and need someone to help them get out of danger.”

The death toll is expected to rise but all hope is not lost. Rescuers are still finding people alive under the rubble.

Colombia President Abelardo de la Espriella declared a state of emergency and held a press conference where he thanked rescuers calling them "heroes" for their dedication to finding survivors. He also shared his commitment to, "effectively address the needs of the victims and the reconstruction of the territories struck by the disaster that has plunged the nation into mourning today. Our hearts and our solidarity are with the victims. You are not alone."

Thousands of survivors and their pets need shelter, emergency aid, and ongoing support after losing their homes and all their belongings.

Our partner, Greater Good Charities, is coordinating actions with the Colombian government, Federation of International Trade, and local nonprofits. They are mobilizing emergency relief packs and hygiene supplies for survivors.

With your support, they will also focus on longer term needs for both people and animals, especially in the harder to reach communities where large aid clusters are not active, such as the Chocó region. 

People and pets have lost everything and need your support now. Rush aid to survivors in the hardest hit areas.