The Los Angeles County Fire Department Urban Search and Rescue Team was dispatched to Colombia on August 13, 2026, to assist in recovery operations following a powerful earthquake that struck the country earlier in the week. The deployment marks the first time the Los Angeles County team has been sent abroad in response to an international disaster.
The team, composed of trained firefighters and rescue specialists, is traveling to the affected region to support local authorities in locating and extracting survivors, providing medical aid, and helping to stabilize damaged structures. Officials from the department indicated that the unit is equipped to operate in challenging conditions and will coordinate its efforts with Colombian emergency services and other foreign assistance groups that have arrived in the aftermath of the quake.
The earthquake, which resulted in fatalities and widespread damage, prompted a swift response from the international community. Several nations have sent rescue crews, medical personnel, and humanitarian supplies to the disaster zone. The presence of the Los Angeles County team adds additional capacity to the ongoing relief effort, expanding the pool of specialized resources available to address the immediate needs of affected communities.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department emphasized that its involvement reflects a commitment to global disaster response and the sharing of expertise in urban search and rescue. As the team prepares for deployment, it will follow established protocols for international operations, including liaison with Colombian officials, adherence to local regulations, and integration with the broader network of aid providers working to restore safety and order after the earthquake.