Direct Relief is deploying emergency operating funds to Patrulla Aérea Civil Colombiana (PAC) to support air transport of medical personnel, supplies, and blood units into hard-to-reach areas near the epicenter of Colombia’s strongest earthquake in a decade, according to a press release by Direct Relief. The support will help procure and deliver urgently needed medical supplies and provide humanitarian air transport into Condoto and other affected municipalities in Chocó. Much of Chocó is reachable only by boat or plane, making air transport essential. The response aims to address immediate health needs following the disaster. A state of national disaster was declared on Monday.
Chocó, the region surrounding the earthquake’s epicenter, was severely impacted by the quake. Aircraft involved in PAC medical missions departed on Tuesday morning for deployment to communities affected by this week’s earthquake. Dozens of aftershocks have continued in the hours since the initial quake. The disaster has killed at least 224 people, with hundreds more injured. The toll continues climbing as rescue operations proceed.
Beyond immediate emergency financial support, Direct Relief is working to assess the medical needs of local partner organizations in Colombia. Emergency medicines and supplies commonly needed after earthquakes are available for deployment. These include wound care and surgical supplies, antibiotics, and Field Medical Packs designed for first responders and search-and-rescue teams. The organization is coordinating with PAC to ensure aid reaches isolated communities. Air transport remains the primary means of delivery to many affected areas.
Direct Relief has a long history of medical support in Colombia. Over the past five years, the organization has provided more than $7 million in medical aid and financial support in Colombia, including $1.2 million in grants. Since 2015, Direct Relief has sent more than $27 million in medical aid to health organizations in the country. It has responded to multiple disasters, including 2017 flooding and mudslides in Mocoa and 2023 Nevado del Ruiz volcanic activity. The organization continues responding regionally, including to Venezuela, which experienced devastating twin earthquakes in late June, killing more than 6,300 people and injuring tens of thousands.
Direct Relief’s Colombia response is unfolding alongside sustained regional disaster relief efforts across South America. The organization’s mobilization highlights the importance of pre-positioned emergency medical resources in areas with limited road access. Coordination with PAC underscores the role of local partners in reaching remote communities. Updates on Direct Relief’s Colombia earthquake response will be published as additional assistance is confirmed. The situation remains active as rescue operations continue.