# Pereira earthquake and recovery efforts

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/pereira-earthquake-and-recovery-efforts
> Updated: 2026-09-06T20:06:24.000Z. Sources: 9. Developments: 2.

A major earthquake struck Pereira, Colombia, on August 10, 2026, causing widespread destruction in the Risaralda region. Reports indicate that between 60% and 70% of the urban area was devastated, affecting over 35,000 homes and causing numerous building collapses. Residents have faced significant losses regarding family members, livelihoods, and medical coverage.

As of early September, the nationwide toll from the magnitude 7.4 earthquake has reached 331 deaths and 4,505 injuries. In Cali, authorities have commenced controlled demolitions of severely damaged structures using machinery to protect adjacent buildings; Mayor Alejandro Eder noted that 11 buildings have been identified for demolition thus far, including the partially collapsed María Mercedes Lloreda.

In the Risaralda department, the economic impact is severe, with business owners associated with the ‘Hecho en Risaralda’ brand reporting losses of approximately $17,000 million. To mitigate this, a delegation of entrepreneurs is traveling to Madrid and Athens to seek international cooperation and new markets for reconstruction. 

Recovery efforts in Pereira continue to focus on economic reactivation. To stimulate local tourism and commerce, musicians Jhonny Rivera and Nanpa Básico are organizing the ‘Volveremos Fest’ for early October.

## Claims

- Demolitions of earthquake-damaged buildings in Cali will be conducted using machinery only, without explosives. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The earthquake on August 10 has resulted in 331 deaths and 4,505 injuries across Colombia. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Eleven buildings in Cali have been identified for demolition due to earthquake damage. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The demolition process will proceed from the top of the structures downward, piece by piece. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Entrepreneurs in Risaralda reported losses of approximately $17,000 million due to the earthquake. (single source)
- More than 35,000 homes were affected in Pereira following the earthquake. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-06: Colombia earthquake recovery: Demolitions begin in Cali as Risaralda seeks aid

Colombia continues recovery from a 7.4 magnitude earthquake that killed 331 people. Efforts include building demolitions in Cali, economic missions in Europe, and recovery festivals in Pereira.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pereira-earthquake-triggers-recovery-efforts-and-music-festival

### 2026-08-31: Pereira commemorates 163 years with focus on earthquake recovery

Pereira marked its 163rd anniversary with ceremonies dedicated to honoring earthquake victims and reaffirming a collective commitment to the city's reconstruction and future.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pereira-commemorates-163-years-with-focus-on-earthquake-recovery

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Cite as: Pereira earthquake and recovery efforts. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/pereira-earthquake-and-recovery-efforts