Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 1,430 as Over 55,000 Remain Missing

Addis Ababa, June 28, 2026 (FMC) — The death toll from the devastating twin earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela has risen to 1,430, while over 55,000 people remain missing, as search-and-rescue teams race against time to locate survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings.

Authorities said more than 3,200 people have been injured in the disaster, which devastated parts of La Guaira and the capital, Caracas, leaving widespread destruction and displacing thousands of residents. Rescue operations have been hampered by persistent aftershocks, damaged infrastructure, and shortages of heavy equipment.

The Venezuelan government said more than 1,600 foreign rescue personnel have joined local emergency teams, with additional international contingents expected to arrive in the coming days. More than 14,000 military and police personnel have also been deployed to support rescue efforts, maintain public order, and carry out health and sanitation measures in the worst-hit areas.

The twin earthquakes, measuring magnitude 7.2 and 7.5, struck Wednesday evening about 160 kilometers west of Caracas, flattening residential buildings, damaging hospitals, roads, airports, and other critical infrastructure, and forcing thousands of people into temporary shelters.

International humanitarian assistance continues to grow as governments and relief organizations dispatch search-and-rescue teams, medical personnel, emergency supplies, and humanitarian aid to support overwhelmed local authorities. Pope Leo XIV has also appealed for global solidarity with the Venezuelan people as the country confronts one of the worst natural disasters in its modern history.

With rescue operations entering a critical phase as the crucial 72-hour window closes, authorities warned that the casualty toll could continue to rise as emergency crews recover more victims from the rubble and efforts to identify the missing continue.