Venezuela Earthquakes: 32 Dead, Over 700 Injured as Quakes Devastate La Guaira; Death Toll Expected to Rise (Watch Videos)

Back-to-back powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening, leaving at least 32 people dead and over 700 injured. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared the coastal region of La Guaira a "disaster zone" and warned that the casualty count is expected to rise as search and rescue teams navigate collapsed infrastructure.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the region was roiled by twin earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude. The first 7.2-magnitude tremor occurred at 22:04 GMT, centered roughly 21 kilometers west of the coastal town of Morón. What Is a Doublet Earthquake? Here’s Why Venezuela Was Hit by Twin Quakes Just 39 Seconds Apart.

Within a minute, a second and more powerful 7.5-magnitude quake struck just 45 kilometers away. The sequential shocks caused numerous buildings to crumble in the capital city of Caracas, triggered at least 20 aftershocks, and forced authorities to suspend operations at the country's main international airport.

In a national address early Thursday, Acting President Rodríguez emphasized that the central objective of the government is focused entirely on saving lives. She noted that official data from La Guaira—one of the hardest-hit coastal regions—is still being compiled due to widespread devastation.

"Dozens of buildings have collapsed, and we are engaged in the arduous task of rescuing the lives that God allows us to save," Rodríguez said. "The state of La Guaira is facing a true tragedy." Emergency crews from the National Emergency System and Civil Protection are currently deployed across affected urban areas, digging through heavy rubble to reach citizens trapped beneath pancaked houses and apartment buildings. Venezuela Earthquake: Hotel Eduard’s Building Collapses, Twin Quakes Trigger State of Emergency (Videos).

Twin Quakes Kill 32 and Injure 700

As domestic emergency services stretch to their limits, Venezuela is preparing to receive specialized international rescue teams. Rodríguez confirmed that specialized personnel from the Dominican Republic are expected to arrive within hours following a direct phone call with Dominican President Luis Abinader.

Furthermore, the Acting President noted that unexpected diplomatic solidarity has arrived from Washington. Rodríguez expressed gratitude toward U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration, stating that U.S. officials have maintained permanent contact with Venezuelan authorities to coordinate relief support and emergency solidarity.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 25, 2026 11:44 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).