Key facts
- The death toll from Venezuela's June earthquakes has climbed to 6,125.
- Nearly 61,000 people received hospital attention following the quakes.
- 16.5% of the debris generated by the earthquakes has been removed.
- The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, struck on June 24, 2026.
- The mainshock was the strongest in Venezuela since the 1900 San Narciso earthquake.
The death toll from twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June has risen to 6,125, according to figures released by top lawmaker Jorge Rodriguez. Nearly 61,000 people received hospital attention, and 16.5% of the debris generated by the quakes has been removed.
Two large strike-slip earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, affected northwestern and central Venezuela on June 24, 2026. The epicenter of the first earthquake was in Veroes Municipality, west of San Felipe, and the mainshock was centered off the coast of La Guaira. These earthquakes caused widespread damage, particularly in Caracas and the state of La Guaira, where 80% of buildings collapsed.
As of July 2026, it was confirmed that more than 5,500 people were killed, 16,700 were injured, and tens of thousands remained missing. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) had predicted the death toll could significantly exceed initial reports, potentially reaching over 10,000.
Acting President Delcy Rodriguez has defended the government's response amid criticism that officials arrived late and did little to help victims. Nine Americans were among the dead, according to the State Department. U.S. urban search and rescue teams completed their mission and returned home, having helped save six lives. The Department of State Disaster Assistance Response Team remains on the ground providing critical assistance.