Venezuela earthquakes kill 235, draw global rescue teams amid strained infrastructure

Twin earthquakes struck northern Venezuela on June 25, killing at least 235 people and injuring more than 4,300 others. The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude quakes, centered west of Caracas near Moron, collapsed buildings across La Guaira state and the capital, trapping residents under rubble and closing the main international airport.

Rescue teams raced to reach survivors within the critical first 72 hours. Venezuelan Health Minister Carlos Alvarado reported the casualty figures to state media, noting that the toll was expected to rise. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared a national state of emergency and established a $200 million reconstruction fund while appealing for heavy equipment from businesses.

Neighboring residents dug through debris by hand in La Guaira, where more than 100 buildings collapsed and at least 70,000 families were affected. Survivors described clinging to doorframes or signaling from under slabs as aftershocks continued. One rescued woman, Graciela Mora, recounted breaking her finger while holding a doorframe and reaching for another person before floors gave way.

International teams arrived quickly. The United States deployed Southern Command assets including the USS Fort Lauderdale and USS Billings, along with $150 million in aid coordinated through partner organizations. Search-and-rescue specialists came from Spain, Switzerland, Chile, El Salvador, Mexico, Brazil, Turkey and China. The United Nations released $2.5 million and coordinated certified urban search teams.

Venezuela’s pre-existing economic difficulties complicated logistics. Hospitals already operated below capacity, power outages persisted, and informal hillside housing in Caracas barrios proved especially vulnerable. Rodríguez thanked assistance from the United States and other nations. Oil production facilities, located far from the epicenter, reported no immediate damage.