Venezuela Earthquake Crisis Live Updates: Death Toll Rises Amidst Devastating Twin Tremors

Rescuers search for victims in a collapsed building in Caracas. (MANAURE QUINTERO via Getty Images)

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Thur, June 25, 2026 at 8:18 PM EDT

At least 188 people have been killed and 1,520 injured in Venezuela after powerful back-to-back earthquakes rocked the country, according to a Thursday afternoon update provided by National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez.

More than 200 people remain trapped under collapsed or damaged buildings after a magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit about 100 miles west of the capital, Caracas, followed less than a minute later by a magnitude 7.5 tremor, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

The USGS said the death toll would most likely run into the thousands, with a substantial probability of it exceeding 10,000. The state of La Guaira, which is believed to be the area hardest hit and which Venezuelan Interim President Delcy Rodríguez described as a "disaster zone."

The quakes were among the strongest to strike Venezuela in more than a century and could be felt throughout the region.

Appealing for unity in an address on state television, Rodríguez said: "This is a true tragedy. From here, we send our message of solidarity, and to those families who have lost loved ones, we reaffirm our condolences and our support in these difficult hours.

Map highlighting the epicenter of two earthquakes in northern Venezuela, illustrating their proximity to major cities like Maracaibo and Caracas.

"We are at this moment working very hard in rescue operations to save the lives that God permits us to save."

In a Truth Social post, President Donald Trump said: "The U.S.A. stands ready, willing, and able to help! I have instructed all agencies of our government to get ready to move quickly. We will be there for our new and great friends."