Buildings collapse as 7.2-magnitude earthquake hits north-central Venezuela

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, June 25, 2026

A pair of powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck north-central Venezuela near Caracas, causing severe damage and triggering ongoing rescue efforts. The U.S. Geological Survey warned of potentially tens of thousands of casualties as aftershocks and structural instability threaten further harm.

A powerful earthquake sequence struck north-central Venezuela on Wednesday, causing significant structural damage and raising concerns about widespread casualties. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported an initial magnitude 7.2 tremor approximately 160 kilometers west of Caracas, followed less than a minute later by a stronger 7.5 magnitude quake.

The USGS issued a warning that high casualties and extensive destruction are likely across Venezuela, estimating potential fatalities ranging from 10,000 to 100,000. Venezuelan authorities had not yet released official national figures on deaths or injuries at the time of reporting, but local officials confirmed collapsed buildings and ongoing rescue efforts in several affected areas.

Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello addressed the nation via state television, emphasizing that security forces, emergency responders, and civil assistance teams had been fully mobilized. He urged citizens to remain cautious, particularly regarding aftershocks, and to check on vulnerable individuals such as children and the elderly. “We are acting according to protocols to activate aid and rescue efforts to help those who need it most,” Cabello said.

Caracas and surrounding states experienced heavy shaking, with damage reported in multiple neighborhoods. In the eastern Caracas municipality of Chacao, Mayor Gustavo Duque reported the collapse of two buildings and at least 16 injuries, though he did not provide specific fatality numbers. “We’re going to do everything we can to rescue the most people possible,” Duque said.

The quake struck during a public holiday commemorating a key military victory in Venezuela’s fight for independence, meaning many residents were at home when the shaking began. Witnesses described scenes of panic and destruction. Astrid Ramirez, a resident of western Caracas, recounted hearing widespread screaming as residents evacuated. Coro Martinez from eastern Caracas described loud crashes and falling household items, while 80-year-old pensioner Maria Romero said the earthquake was more severe than one that hit the city in 1967.

Some residents reported receiving early earthquake alerts on their phones shortly before feeling strong shaking. Emergency services, including fire trucks and police, were active throughout the night as aftershocks continued. Hospital de Clinicas in Caracas reportedly called staff to extend their shifts to care for the injured.

As the situation develops, authorities continue rescue operations amid fears of escalating casualty numbers and ongoing risks from unstable structures and aftershocks.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.