On June 24, 2026, two powerful earthquakes struck north-central Venezuela near Caracas. The earthquakes occurred within seconds of each other and triggered widespread shaking across the country. Authorities continue to assess the full impact as search-and-rescue operations and damage evaluations remain ongoing.
Venezuela earthquake: Latest updates, fast facts, and how to help
- Fast Facts: 2026 Venezuela earthquakes
- Where did the earthquakes occur?
- How severe is the damage?
- What is known about casualties?
- What are the most urgent needs?
- How can I help people impacted by the Venezuela earthquake?
- How is World Vision responding?
Fast Facts: 2026 Venezuela earthquakes
- Twin earthquakes struck Venezuela less than a minute apart on June 24, 2026.
- The earthquakes measured approximately 7.2 and 7.5 magnitudes, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
- The epicenters were near Morón on Venezuela’s Caribbean coast, about 100 miles (160 km) west of Caracas.
- The second earthquake occurred roughly 39 seconds after the first in what seismologists describe as a “doublet” event.
- Strong shaking caused buildings to collapse in Caracas and other communities, trapping people beneath rubble.
- Venezuelan authorities launched search-and-rescue operations across affected areas as emergency crews worked through the night.
- The earthquakes are among the strongest to strike Venezuela in more than a century.
Where did the earthquakes occur?
The earthquakes were centered near the coastal region west of Caracas, with strong shaking felt across the capital and several surrounding states. Damage has been reported in Caracas, La Guaira, and other nearby communities.
How severe is the damage?
Emergency assessments are still underway. Initial reports describe collapsed buildings, damaged hospitals, transportation disruptions, and impacts to critical infrastructure. Rescue teams are searching for people trapped in debris while authorities continue to assess the full extent of the destruction.
One resident described sudden and intense shaking as the earthquakes struck with little warning.
“We are deeply shaken and frightened,” said María Andreína Pernalete, a resident of Caracas and communications manager for World Vision in Venezuela. “I was with my 2-year-old baby, my mother, and my husband. I received an alert just a few seconds before everything started shaking, and we gathered under a column.”
She described damage to her building and said her family was unable to return home due to safety concerns.
“We had to move to a nearby convent where we are staying now, because of the damage our building suffered — we can’t go back,” she said. “We are very shaken by what happened. We hope the number of affected people is minimal; we are praying for the families who are suffering.”
National emergency services, firefighters, police, medical personnel, and local volunteers have been mobilized to conduct rescue operations, provide emergency care, and support affected communities. International partners are also monitoring the situation and assessing how they can assist.
“At times like this, our primary concern is the safety and well-being of every member of our team and their families,” said Peter Gape, World Vision’s National Director for Colombia and Venezuela. “We are in constant contact with our staff in the affected areas to assess their situation, provide the necessary assistance, and ensure they have the support they need. We offer our prayers for all those affected by this earthquake and reaffirm our commitment to respond with solidarity, hope, and compassion in the face of this emergency.”
What is known about casualties?
As of now, there is no official nationwide tally of deaths or injuries. Emergency responders and civil protection authorities continue to inspect damaged structures, conduct rescue operations, and assess the impact on affected communities. Information is preliminary and subject to change as official assessments continue.
What are the most urgent needs?
In the immediate aftermath of a major earthquake, affected families often need:
- Emergency shelter
- Safe drinking water
- Food assistance
- Medical care
- Hygiene supplies
- Child protection and psychosocial support
- Temporary learning spaces for children
Needs assessments are ongoing and may change as more information becomes available.
How can I help people impacted by the earthquake?
- Pray: Join us in praying for protection, rescue, and strength for affected communities.
- Give: Your gift today helps provide emergency assistance to children and families impacted by disasters in Venezuela and around the world.
How is World Vision responding?
World Vision has activated its incident teams and is prioritizing the safety and well-being of staff and their families while assessing impacts on communities. Current actions include:
- Accounting for all staff members and their families
- Monitoring conditions across affected regions
- Coordinating response efforts between teams in Venezuela and Colombia
- Conducting safety assessments of offices and facilities
- Gathering information on community impacts and humanitarian needs
- Preparing for emergency response activities as assessments are completed
