"The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is deeply saddened by the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck western and central Colombia on the morning of 10 August. The event has already caused hundreds of deaths and injuries, with hundreds more reported missing. Homes have been destroyed and essential infrastructure services such as water, energy, health, education, and telecommunications have been seriously disrupted.
Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected and we stand in solidarity with the people of Colombia and with the rescue teams and first responders working tirelessly to save lives.
IOM teams are ready to deploy and to assess the most urgent needs in close coordination with the National Government and the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management, local authorities, and humanitarian organizations present in the affected areas. Building on 70 years of partnership with Colombia, IOM stands ready to support the Government of Colombia with emergency shelter assistance and essential relief items for people displaced by the disaster, while working alongside United Nations humanitarian partners to address urgent needs, including water, sanitation and hygiene services and psychosocial support.
In an emergency of this scale, every minute counts. IOM calls on the international community to support the response and stand with the people of Colombia."
Visit the IOM donation page Emergency Colombia Earthquake to contribute.
