2026.06.25 - 15:59

Facebook Share

Tweet

 Venezuelan authorities have declared a nationwide state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes struck the countrys northern region, leaving at least 32 people dead and more than 700 injured, according to preliminary figures. Officials warned that the toll could rise significantly as search and rescue operations continue.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez said the emergency declaration was issued to address the disasters impact, noting that casualty figures remain incomplete, particularly from the hardest-hit areas, including the coastal state of La Guaira.

Authorities reported the collapse of dozens of buildings across affected regions, while emergency crews continue assessing damage and searching for people trapped beneath the rubble.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) warned that the full impact of the earthquakes could be extensive, indicating that the strength of the tremors and resulting structural failures may lead to a substantial increase in casualties in the coming hours.

The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck northern Venezuela and were followed by more than 20 aftershocks.

Significant damage was reported in the capital, Caracas, where several buildings and facilities collapsed, including a 22-story residential tower in the Altamira district.

Maiquetía International Airport sustained damage and was temporarily closed, while rail services and metro operations were suspended. Power and water outages were also reported in multiple areas.

The Interior Ministry mobilized civil defense teams, firefighters, and police units, while a senior military commander was appointed to oversee the emergency response.

Rescue teams, assisted by volunteers, are continuing efforts to locate survivors beneath collapsed structures using available equipment, amid fears that many people may still be trapped.

Authorities also suspended gas supplies to affected districts to reduce the risk of fires and explosions. Thousands of residents sought refuge in streets, parks, and public squares amid concerns over weakened buildings and ongoing aftershocks.

The Venezuelan presidency announced that international rescue and humanitarian assistance teams are expected to arrive in the coming hours from several countries, including the United States, Mexico, Qatar, El Salvador, and the Dominican Republic.

Venezuela now faces a critical phase as rescue operations continue and authorities work to determine the full scale of the disaster. Saving survivors, protecting displaced residents, and preventing secondary emergencies remain the immediate priorities following the twin earthquakes.

Facebook Share

Tweet