Back-to-back Venezuela earthquakes kill at least 164

Back-to-back Venezuela earthquakes last night kill at least 164

Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela in the space of a minute last night, leaving at least 164 dead and over 700 injured as of 10:30 UTC, June 25.

The quakes struck at 6:04 p.m. local time (22:04 UTC). Centered on the state of Carabobo – some 12 miles (20 km) from the country’s capital, Caracas – they had magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5. The 2nd was the strongest to strike Venezuela since a magnitude 7.7 quake in 1900.

Many buildings in Caracas have been reduced to rubble. And, as reported by the BBC, Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodríguez has stated that the most affected state is La Guaira, just north of Caracas, where “dozens” of buildings have collapsed.

The number of lives lost will almost certainly rise as more information comes in. Shortly after the earthquake struck, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) predicted a 33% chance of 1,000 to 10,000 fatalities, and a 42% chance of 10,000 to 100,000 fatalities.

BREAKING: USGS upgrades Venezuela earthquake to 7.5. Major damage to buildings.

— AZ Intel (@azintel.bsky.social) 2026-06-24T23:16:42.984Z

Quakes came during holiday celebrations

June 24 is a national holiday in Venezuela, commemorating the victory of Venezuelan independence leader Simón Bolívar against Spain in the 1821 Battle of Carabobo. So the devastating quakes came with many people at home, celebrating with their families.

This morning, rescue attempts continue amid fears of possible aftershocks.

Leaders across the world have offered condolences and pledged support, with governments including that of the U.S., Germany and China volunteering to aid relief efforts.

Bottom line: Two back-to-back Venezuela earthquakes caused devastation last night. The current death toll is at least 164, with over 700 injured.

Via USGS

Via BBC

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