After today’s strong earthquake in Colombia our thoughts are with the people, families, and communities affected, as well as with the emergency response teams, local authorities, and organizations working on the ground. 

Colombia is highly exposed to seismic risk. According to data from the Colombian Seismic Engineering Association and the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE), 74% of the population lives in urban areas and 83% lives in areas of high or moderate seismic hazard. Build Change estimates that around 60% of buildings could lack adequate structural systems to withstand earthquakes.

Today’s 7.4 magnitude earthquake highlights the importance of strengthening housing resilience so communities are better prepared for seismic events, and of keeping safe housing at the center of the conversation around seismic risk in Colombia.

In the coming hours and days, technical assessments will be essential to better understand the extent of the damage and the needs of affected communities. Build Change remains fully committed and ready to support affected communities and local partners as needs become clearer.