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NewsWSVN 7 News MiamiAugust 11, 2026Miami-Dade

7.4 magnitude earthquake strikes western Colombia

A 7.4 magnitude earthquake occurred in San José del Palmar, Colombia, on Monday, resulting in multiple fatalities and widespread structural damage. The event is the strongest earthquake recorded in the country since 1990.

earthquakeColombianatural disastergeology
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Why It Matters

The earthquake caused significant loss of life and infrastructure damage across Colombia, with tremors felt as far away as Venezuela.

Key Facts

  • A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday.
  • The epicenter was located in San José del Palmar, Chocó.
  • The earthquake caused scores of deaths and severe damage to thousands of buildings.
  • This is the strongest earthquake in Colombia since at least 1990.
  • The epicenter was approximately 240 kilometers (149 miles) west of Bogotá.
  • Tremors were felt in Bogotá and in neighboring Venezuela.
  • Earthquakes with a 7.4 magnitude are classified as 'major' with expected damage.
  • Most earthquakes occur near tectonic plate boundaries, but can occur in continental interiors.

Who's Mentioned

locationBogotá“Capital city where tremors were felt.”organizationUS Geological Survey“Provided data on the earthquake's magnitude and historical context.”locationVenezuela“Country where tremors were also felt.”locationChocó“The department where the epicenter was located.”locationSan José del Palmar“The epicenter of the earthquake.”