Starlink is once again stepping in to provide connectivity following a major natural disaster, offering free satellite internet service to people impacted by the devastating earthquake in Colombia.
The 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, August 10, causing widespread damage and knocking out critical infrastructure in some of the hardest-hit communities. At least 250 people have been killed, while rescue crews continue searching damaged and collapsed buildings for survivors.
On Tuesday, Starlink announced it is making its satellite internet service free for customers in affected areas through September 12. The company is also deploying Starlink hardware to emergency response agencies to help restore communications where traditional networks have been damaged or knocked offline.
For those impacted by the devastating earthquake in Colombia, Starlink is providing free service through September 12 to new and existing customers. We are also deploying Starlink to support emergency response agencies and restore connectivity in the hardest-hit areas →…
— Starlink (@Starlink) August 11, 2026
Free Starlink for new and existing customers
Existing Starlink customers in impacted areas don’t need to do anything to receive the offer. Starlink says it will automatically apply a credit to active accounts covering service through September 12.
The offer also extends to customers who previously cancelled their Starlink service. Those accounts will receive a credit, allowing customers to reactivate their service and reconnect without paying for the next month.
New customers aren’t being left out either. Anyone in an affected area who purchases a Starlink can contact the company’s support team after their purchase to have free service applied through September 12.
Starlink is also offering free replacement hardware to customers whose terminals were damaged by the earthquake.
Starlink continues disaster response efforts
The deployment in Colombia comes just over a year after Starlink provided similar assistance following the deadly floods in Texas in July 2025.
During that disaster, Starlink deployed terminals to search-and-rescue teams and emergency vehicles while also offering free service to customers in affected areas.
SpaceX has increasingly used Starlink as an emergency communications network following natural disasters. Unlike traditional internet infrastructure, Starlink terminals connect directly to satellites in low-Earth orbit, allowing for uninterrupted connectivity without relying on damaged cellular towers or terrestrial internet lines.
That capability can be particularly valuable during the first days after a disaster, when communications are critical for coordinating rescue teams and allowing residents to contact family members.
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