Venezuela earthquakes of magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 struck near Caracas on Wednesday, prompting interim leader Delcy Rodriguez to declare a state of emergency. The US Geological Survey said the first quake hit about 160 kilometres west of Caracas.
A second, stronger tremor followed less than a minute later. USGS said high casualties and extensive damage were probable.
Authorities did not immediately release a national toll for deaths or injuries. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said buildings, homes and houses had collapsed.
Venezuela has declared a state of emergency after massive back-to-back earthquakes toppled buildings in Caracas, knocked down power lines and devastated the capital’s main airport. Read here: https://t.co/TbshJu0xL0 pic.twitter.com/UGeh0VOr3m
— Bloomberg (@business) June 25, 2026He said firefighters, police and civil assistance teams had been activated. In Chacao, Mayor Gustavo Duque told Globovision that two structures had collapsed.
He said 16 people were injured and confirmed deaths, but gave no number. Emergency workers searched collapsed buildings in Caracas as relatives sought help for trapped people.
Damage at Venezuela’s main airport near La Guaira. The US embassy in Caracas urged citizens to seek secure shelter and avoid damaged areas.
Read: Japan Typhoon Warning Issued As Two Storms Approach
US President Donald Trump said the United States was ready to provide aid. The US Tsunami Warning System first issued a tsunami threat for Puerto Rico and nearby islands, then withdrew it about an hour later.
