The Kabul Tribune (KT) — Two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.1 and 7.5 in magnitude struck Venezuela less than a minute apart, causing widespread damage in several parts of the country, the BBC reported.
The earthquakes occurred early Wednesday, June 24, 2026, in
Carabobo state near the city of Morón in northern Venezuela. Seismological
agencies said the quakes struck at shallow depths of between 10 and 13
kilometers, intensifying their impact at the surface. Tremors were felt not
only in the affected region but also in the capital, Caracas, and several other
states.
Initial reports indicated that several buildings collapsed
or sustained damage in Caracas and surrounding areas. Authorities also reported
disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services, while parts of key
infrastructure were affected. Venezuela's main international airport, Simón
Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía, suffered damage and was temporarily
closed, leading to flight cancellations.
Venezuelan authorities urged residents to leave vulnerable
buildings and cooperate with emergency responders as search-and-rescue
operations continued in affected areas. A state of emergency was declared
following the disaster.
The U.S. Geological Survey warned that the powerful
earthquakes could result in significant casualties and extensive economic
losses because of the severity of the shaking and population density in the
affected regions. Officials initially reported at least 32 deaths and more than
700 injuries, with the toll expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.
A tsunami warning was briefly issued for parts of the
Caribbean after the earthquakes but was later lifted after authorities
determined that the major threat had passed.
The twin earthquakes are among the strongest recorded in
Venezuela in more than a century. The country lies along an active tectonic
zone where the Caribbean and South American plates meet, making it vulnerable
to major seismic activity.
