Two powerful earthquakes struck northern Venezuela, leaving devastation in their wake. On June 24, 2026, an initial 7.2-magnitude quake hit around 6 p.m. Eastern time. It was quickly followed by a 7.5-magnitude quake. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the epicenters were close, about three miles apart, near Morón, roughly 100 miles west of Caracas.
Buildings in Caracas crumbled, prompting a swift response from rescue teams. They have been working tirelessly to find victims amidst the debris. Social media posts captured scenes of destruction, including widespread damage at Simón Bolívar International Airport, which is now closed.
USGS seismologist Paul Earle noted the difficulty in distinguishing the exact magnitudes and locations of quakes that happen so closely together. He emphasized the complexity of interpreting seismogram data in these instances.
The twin quakes are the strongest to hit Venezuela since 1900. The simultaneous nature of these quakes was described by USGS as a ‘doublet.’ Their magnitude is unprecedented in recent Venezuelan history, with the last comparable event more than a century ago.
The full extent of casualties remains unknown, but initial USGS models suggest deaths could reach thousands, with potential economic damages in the billions. Paul Earle explained the gravity of the situation, stating, “This doesn’t happen very often, and when they’re right together it’s hard to understand what would happen.”
Beyond Venezuela, significant seismic activity occurred elsewhere: a 6.9-magnitude earthquake hit Japan’s east coast, and Northern California experienced a 5.6-magnitude quake. These events did not result in major damage.
In Venezuela, substantial aftershocks are anticipated. USGS forecasts a 40% probability of another quake measuring 6.0 or greater in the same region within the next week, with an ‘almost certainty’ of an aftershock of at least magnitude 5.0.
Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency. She confirmed damage across several states, urging citizens to stay calm and united. Tsunami warnings for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands were lifted by Wednesday night.
Leave a Reply