Venezuela Hit by Twin Powerful Earthquakes, 164 Dead, Nearly 1,000 Injured

Caracas, June 25, 2026: Venezuela has been struck by two powerful earthquakes that caused widespread destruction across the country. According to government officials, at least 164 people have died and 971 people have been injured. Rescue teams are still searching for survivors trapped under collapsed buildings, and officials fear the death toll may rise further. 

The earthquakes occurred on Wednesday evening local time. The first quake measured 7.2 magnitude, while a second, stronger 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck less than a minute later. Both earthquakes occurred near the city of Morón, about 168 kilometers west of the capital city, Caracas. 

Buildings Collapse Across Venezuela

The powerful tremors caused buildings, homes, and offices to collapse in several regions. The worst-affected areas include Caracas, La Guaira, Miranda, Aragua, Carabobo, and Falcón states. Many people ran into the streets as buildings shook violently. 

In La Guaira, dozens of buildings collapsed, leaving many people trapped beneath the rubble. Rescue workers have been using heavy machinery and trained search teams to find survivors. Several children were rescued alive from collapsed structures. 

State of Emergency Declared

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared a nationwide state of emergency following the disaster. The government has mobilized rescue teams, military personnel, doctors, and emergency workers to assist affected communities. 

Authorities have also opened temporary shelters in schools and public buildings for families who lost their homes. Citizens have been advised to avoid damaged structures because aftershocks may continue. 

Airport and Transport Services Affected

The earthquakes damaged important infrastructure across the country. Venezuela’s main airport, Simón Bolívar International Airport, suffered damage and was temporarily closed. Metro and rail services in Caracas were suspended as engineers inspected tracks and stations for safety. 

Power outages and communication problems were reported in several regions, making rescue operations more difficult. Some hospitals were also damaged and had to move patients outside for safety. 

More Than 30 Aftershocks Recorded

Experts have reported more than 30 aftershocks since the main earthquakes struck. Many residents spent the night outdoors in parks, sports grounds, and temporary shelters because they feared additional tremors. 

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) described the event as a rare and powerful “double earthquake” sequence and warned that extensive damage and high casualties were likely. 

International Help Arriving

Several countries, including the United States, Spain, France, Germany, Mexico, Qatar, and El Salvador, have offered assistance to Venezuela. Rescue teams, medical supplies, and humanitarian aid are being sent to help those affected by the disaster. 

International rescue experts are expected to join local teams in the search for survivors trapped under collapsed buildings. 

One of the Strongest Earthquakes in Venezuela’s History

According to reports, the 7.5-magnitude earthquake is among the strongest to hit Venezuela in more than a century. Seismologists say the fact that two major earthquakes occurred within seconds of each other increased the level of destruction. 

Many residents described the disaster as one of the most frightening moments of their lives. Videos from affected areas show collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and rescue workers searching through piles of rubble. 

Rescue Operations Continue

Rescue efforts are continuing around the clock as emergency workers race against time to find survivors. Authorities have urged people to remain calm, follow official safety instructions, and stay away from damaged buildings. 

The full extent of the disaster is still being assessed, and officials warn that the number of deaths and injuries could increase in the coming days as rescue teams reach more affected areas.