Guatemala and Colombia face severe casualties from floods and earthquake

Guatemala and Colombia are facing significant humanitarian crises due to separate natural disasters. In Guatemala, the 2026 rainy season has resulted in 15 deaths and affected 89,907 people, according to the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (Conred). Since April 19, the country has recorded 1,144 emergencies, primarily floods, tree falls, and landslides. The damage includes thousands of affected homes and significant impacts on public infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and schools, with Alta Verapaz being the most affected department.

In Colombia, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake in San José del Palmar, Chocó, has caused widespread devastation. The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) reports 329 deaths, 4,600 injuries, and 234 people missing. The disaster has impacted 16 departments and 481 municipalities, affecting over 317,000 people. Infrastructure damage is extensive, including the destruction or damage of tens of thousands of homes, hundreds of health centers, and numerous educational and community facilities.