The magnitude was 7.4 and the epicentre was in San José del Palmar in the department of Chocó, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The quake struck at a depth of 107 kilometres.
According to a statement from Governor Nubia Córdoba, people have been injured and buildings have suffered “extensive damage” in the provincial capital of Quibdó. Local media report destroyed buildings and collapsed facades in several cities.
About 20 buildings have collapsed in the city of Cali, according to Mayor Alejandro Eder. Several people are reported to be trapped under the rubble. At least 18 people have died in the city of Pereira, according to local authorities. Two deaths have been confirmed in the city of Manizales, where one of the towers of the city's neo-Gothic cathedral has toppled.
Damage in the capital Bogotá is reported to be limited to cracks in facades and walls.
Six smaller airports in western Colombia have been damaged and have halted operations, according to the Colombian aviation authority.
The earthquake was felt in neighbouring Ecuador, Panama and Venezuela. No tsunami warning has been issued.
