Queens community mourns after devastating earthquake hits Colombia

On August 10, 2026, a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, causing widespread devastation and concern among the Colombian-American community in Queens, New York. This borough is home to one of the largest Colombian populations in the New York City area, and the impact of the earthquake was felt deeply among its residents. Many local businesses, particularly Colombian restaurants, turned their televisions to news coverage of the disaster, reflecting the shared grief and anxiety over the situation back home.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards announced that his office would collaborate with community groups and nonprofits to provide assistance to families affected by the earthquake. The emotional toll was evident as local residents expressed their sorrow and worry for loved ones in Colombia. Bello Florido, the owner of Pimpollo Colombian restaurant in East Elmhurst, shared his distress, stating that he watched the news with tears as the death toll rose. He emphasized the personal connection many in the community have to Colombia, noting that they have family and friends in the affected areas.

In Jackson Heights, another neighborhood with a significant Colombian presence, workers at local restaurants voiced their concerns about the destruction in their homeland. Camilo Garcia, an employee at Pollos Mario, described the devastation, saying that many houses and buildings were down, and the situation was terrible. Jesus Marz, who works at Barriles Restaurant and Sports Bar, recounted his experience of being on a video call with his sister during the quake, expressing relief that his family was safe after having to evacuate their building.

As search teams began their efforts to find survivors amidst the rubble, the community in Queens remained hopeful yet anxious. The earthquake not only affected individual families but also resonated with the collective identity of the Colombian community in the borough. Many residents articulated that Colombia is an integral part of their lives, and the tragedy has united them in grief and support for those impacted by the disaster.