Overview
- The U.S. Geological Survey recorded two shallow quakes on June 24 that measured M7.2 and M7.5 and occurred roughly 40 seconds apart, producing intense shaking across Caracas and northern coastal states.
- Authorities have confirmed at least 188 dead and about 1,520 injured with many missing, and reports say more than 200 buildings were damaged or collapsed, concentrated in Caracas, La Guaira and nearby coastal areas.
- Search-and-rescue operations continue but officials say domestic capacity is strained, volunteers and limited emergency teams are filling gaps, and international rescue units and UN support have been offered or are en route.
- Critics and local reporting say the government response was slow and hampered by shortages of equipment such as heavy machinery and medical capacity, a problem tied to long-term political instability and underinvestment in infrastructure.
- The earthquakes were felt in neighboring Colombia, key airports suffered damage or closures, and humanitarian needs are expected to rise as aftershocks continue and rescue efforts proceed.