According to the reports of 25 June, two powerful earthquakes measuring magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 struck western Venezuela within moments of each other late on 24 June, causing widespread destruction across the country. The quakes hit near San Felipe and Yumare, west of Caracas, triggering the collapse of dozens of buildings and prompting emergency rescue operations in several regions.
Interim President Delcy Rodriguez reported at least 32 deaths and more than 700 injuries, warning that the toll could rise as authorities continue assessing damage in the hardest hit areas. Rescue workers are searching through collapsed structures for survivors while emergency teams from other countries prepare to assist recovery efforts.
The earthquakes caused significant damage to infrastructure, including the closure of Simon Bolivar International Airport after it sustained severe structural impacts. A tsunami warning was briefly issued and later cancelled, while residents described scenes of panic as the two strong tremors struck less than a minute apart, trapping people in damaged buildings and forcing thousands into the streets.
Experts said Venezuela’s location along a major fault zone between the Caribbean and South American tectonic plates contributed to the severity of the disaster. The vulnerability of buildings constructed on soft sediments and the prevalence of informal housing increased the destruction, leading scientists to warn that the eventual death toll could reach into the thousands.
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Venezuela earthquakes kill at least 32, injure more than 700 others
