Venezuela Declares State of Emergency After Twin Powerful Earthquakes Kill 32

At least 32 people died, and 700 were injured after two earthquakes struck Venezuela’s northern coast 40 seconds apart on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.

Officials confirmed these were the largest tremors to hit the country in over a century.

A foreshock with a magnitude of 7.2 hit near San Felipe, in Yaracuy state, just after 6:04 p.m. ET. A 7.5 magnitude quake followed 40 seconds later, 23 kilometers southeast of Yumare.

That town is close to some of Venezuela’s largest oil refineries.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency and formed a high-level task force to manage search and rescue efforts.

“We are currently engaged in difficult rescue operations to save as many lives as possible. This is truly a tragedy,” Rodríguez said in a video message.

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Devastation and Infrastructure Failure in Venezuela Following Earthquakes

La Guaira suffered the most damage, and officials labeled it a disaster zone.

A waterfront hotel in Macuto collapsed, and a high-rise crumbled in Catia La Mar, many buildings fell across the coast, and in Caracas.

The quakes occurred on a public holiday when many residents were either at home or out at events.

One resident of Caracas, who escaped from a damaged building, told CNN, “The scene was like a horror movie.”

The shaking reached neighboring Colombia, hundreds of kilometers from the epicenter.

The infrastructure failed quickly, and Simon Bolivar Airport near Caracas closed due to damage.

According to watchdog NetBlocks, internet connectivity dropped sharply after power and telecom lines failed.

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International Rescue and Aid Efforts Following the Earthquake

The U.S. Geological Survey issued two red alerts through its PAGER system, warning of “high casualties and extensive damage.”

The US Tsunami Warning Centers stated that no tsunami threat exists, and Rodríguez confirmed that Venezuela will receive U.S. rescue teams early Thursday, 25th June 2026, after President Donald Trump offered support.

Teams from the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Mexico, and Qatar are also being deployed as China, Brazil, and Caribbean nations have promised humanitarian aid.

The country is under an interim government after U.S. forces captured President Nicolás Maduro earlier this year. Years of hyperinflation have already devastated the economy.

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Residents run into the streets of Caracas after Wednesday’s 7.2 and 7.5 quakes hit Venezuela’s northern coast 40 seconds apart. The tremors killed at least 32 people and forced thousands from homes and public events. Credits Reuters.