Colombia quake death toll hits 273 as rescue hopes fade

In Colombia, around 14 August 2026, the death toll from a major earthquake rose from 273 to 281, 285 and 287 as rescue hopes faded. Rescuers in the ruins of Cali called for silence around the rubble so they could listen for survivors, while the window for survival narrowed. Other reports described signs of life emerging under the debris.

Survivors were left homeless and jobless, according to France 24. Among the dead was a New Jersey mother who was reported to have died trying to save her daughter. A Mexican couple was reported missing after the quake, and teenagers who had fled Venezuela after deadly quakes there were caught in the disaster in Colombia.