27.06.2026 13:15
After two major earthquakes that occurred one after the other in Venezuela, the feared scenario is increasingly becoming a reality. Although the official death toll has been announced as 164, it is stated that thousands of people are under the rubble. The predictive model of the United States Geological Survey indicates that the disaster's toll could be much heavier than thought. As search and rescue teams race against time, it is assessed that the death toll could be expressed in tens of thousands.
The situation emerging after two major earthquakes that struck Venezuela consecutively is worsening by the hour. Official data reports that 164 people have lost their lives and 971 have been injured so far. However, considering that thousands are still trapped under the rubble, the U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) forecast model suggests the death toll could be in the tens of thousands. According to experts, the true extent of the disaster will become clearer as search and rescue operations progress.
WORST-CASE SCENARIO: POTENTIAL FOR 10,000 DEATHS
Just 39 seconds after the first earthquake of magnitude 7.2, which occurred shortly after 11:00 PM local time, a second earthquake of magnitude 7.5 struck the same fault line. This rare event, described by scientists as a "doublet earthquake," compounded the destructive impact of the tremors. The USGS disaster prediction model indicates a high risk that the death toll could reach 10,000. This estimate is not a finalized tally but reflects an early risk analysis based on earthquake magnitude, population density, and building stock.
THOUSANDS ARE UNDER THE RUBBLE
Rescue teams are racing against time, especially in the worst-hit areas such as La Guaira. Many apartment buildings and commercial centers have completely collapsed, and it is feared that thousands of people remain trapped under the debris. Officials have stated that many areas in La Guaira, which suffered the heaviest damage, have not yet been included in the initial death toll figures.
MASS PANIC IN THE CAPITAL
The earthquakes also caused widespread panic in the capital, Caracas. With the violent shaking, citizens fled their homes and workplaces, flooding the streets. Images shared on social media show numerous collapsed buildings, roads covered in rubble, and the sky shrouded in thick dust clouds. Maiquetia International Airport near Caracas was also closed due to severe damage.
APPROXIMATELY 20 AFTERSHOCKS RECORDED
About 20 aftershocks have been recorded in the region following the initial two major earthquakes. Officials warned the public not to enter damaged buildings, noting that new aftershocks could increase the risk of collapse.
STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED
Venezuela's Interim President Delcy Rodriguez announced a state of emergency across the country. Rodriguez stated that search and rescue efforts would be accelerated with support from international aid organizations and foreign countries. A $200 million emergency fund will be established for the reconstruction of infrastructure, hospitals, and housing.
SUPPORT MESSAGE FROM TRUMP
U.S. President Donald Trump also expressed concern in a statement about the "devastating number of deaths" in Venezuela and stated that the U.S. is ready to provide support in search, rescue, and humanitarian aid. Many other countries have also announced they will send rescue teams and humanitarian assistance.
TRUE TOLL MAY EMERGE DAYS LATER
Officials report that many areas are still inaccessible due to major damage to communication and transportation infrastructure. Therefore, the official death toll is expected to rise rapidly in the coming hours and days. Experts state that the real picture from this disaster, considered one of the largest natural disasters Venezuela has experienced in recent years, will become clear as debris removal efforts are completed.