Municipal police officers stand next to the remains of a collapsed structure following an earthquake in Caracas on June 24, 2026. A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Venezuela. (Manaure Quintero/AFP via Getty Images)
Two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude struck Venezuela's northern coast within seconds of each other on Wednesday evening, leaving dozens dead, hundreds injured, and causing widespread destruction.
Acting President Delcy Rodriguez said at least 32 people were killed and more than 700 injured. A nationwide state of emergency has been declared as authorities assess severe damage in Caracas and other affected areas.
Metro and rail services in the capital have been suspended, while Maiquetía International Airport has been closed following reports of structural damage. More than 20 aftershocks have been recorded since the initial quake.
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Images from Caracas showed collapsed buildings, rescue teams searching through rubble, and injured residents receiving treatment on the streets. Emergency crews were deployed to the hard-hit districts of Altamira and Palos Grandes.
The United States announced it is mobilising assistance, including search-and-rescue teams, medical supplies, and humanitarian aid.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the 7.2-magnitude quake near San Felipe was a foreshock, followed 39 seconds later by a stronger 7.5-magnitude mainshock near Yumare. The agency issued a red alert for potential fatalities and extensive damage, warning that the disaster may require a major national and international response.
A tsunami advisory was briefly issued for coastal areas near the epicentre but was later lifted. Source: ABC News
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