Landslide in Moniquirá destroys homes and forces evacuations

A major landslide in the rural sectors of Moniquirá, Boyacá, has caused significant destruction to residential properties. The movement occurred in the early hours of October 22, 2026, affecting areas including Pajales, Las Canoas, and San Rafael.

Reports indicate that several homes were destroyed, with additional structures left at high risk. The emergency followed intense rainfall, with local authorities noting that daily precipitation reached 80.2 mm, doubling the monthly average. Some reports suggest the instability may have been preceded by cracks and water seepage appearing six days prior, following a magnitude 5 earthquake.

Local officials, including Mayor Fredy Pardo Pinzón, have coordinated with disaster management units to conduct technical evaluations and preventive evacuations. Affected families are expected to receive humanitarian assistance, psychosocial support, and rental subsidies for three months. Authorities are currently assessing soil stability to determine if the affected areas are safe for future reconstruction.