Venezuela is facing one of the worst natural disasters in its modern history after two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck within a minute of each other killing at least 235 people and injuring more than 1,500. The devastating twin quakes flattened buildings damaged critical infrastructure forced thousands from their homes and triggered an international humanitarian response as rescue teams continue searching for survivors trapped beneath the rubble.
The earthquakes struck near the town of Moron, west of the capital Caracas, with shallow epicentres that intensified the destruction across several states. Authorities declared a nationwide state of emergency as hospitals filled with injured victims and emergency workers raced against time to rescue those still missing. The disaster is considered one of the strongest earthquakes to hit Venezuela in more than a century.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) warned that casualties could continue rising, saying the scale of destruction indicates widespread damage. More than 20 aftershocks have already shaken affected regions forcing residents to spend nights outdoors amid fears of further collapses.
Massive international relief effort launched
As rescue operations continue countries and humanitarian organisations around the world have stepped forward with financial assistance, emergency supplies and specialised rescue teams.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) announced an emergency allocation of $2.5 million to support relief and recovery operations across the affected regions.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo XIV has sent an initial emergency donation of 100,000 euros (around $114,000) to help victims and support humanitarian assistance.
The United States has mobilised one of the largest international responses so far, deploying two warships, transport aircraft, helicopters and $150 million in humanitarian assistance. American search and rescue teams have also been dispatched to assist local emergency responders.
China said it is prepared to provide assistance based on Venezuela requirements. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that Beijing is willing to extend help in an appropriate manner according to the needs identified by the Venezuelan government.
Iran also expressed solidarity, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei saying Tehran is ready to provide any assistance required for relief and rescue operations.
Across Latin America, several neighbouring countries have mobilised emergency support. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced the deployment of a field hospital along with 36 firefighters rescue specialists and communications experts who will arrive in Venezuela through two relief flights.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that Mexico is sending military rescue teams and medical personnel while remaining prepared to provide additional assistance if required.
Cuba said its medical personnel already stationed in Venezuela have been fully mobilised to provide healthcare services to earthquake victims. Chilean President Jose Antonio Kast also announced humanitarian assistance and rescue teams for the disaster hit nation.
Colombia which also experienced strong tremors from the earthquakes, is sending more than 60 rescue workers and 12 tonnes of humanitarian aid across the border. Meanwhile, Argentina Costa Rica and Uruguay expressed solidarity with Venezuela, while Ecuador and the Dominican Republic confirmed that emergency assistance is ready for deployment if requested.
Rescue operations continue as fears remain high
Emergency crews continue clearing debris from collapsed homes, apartment buildings and public infrastructure while helicopters survey the worst hit areas. Entire neighbourhoods remain without electricity and communication services, making rescue efforts even more challenging.
Authorities have closed schools in several regions and continue monitoring aftershocks that could trigger further structural collapses. Venezuela main international airport also suffered damage, disrupting transport and the arrival of humanitarian supplies.
Technology has also played an important role during the disaster. Although Venezuela lacks a national earthquake early warning system, many Android users reportedly received alerts through Google Android Earthquake Alerts giving some residents valuable seconds to seek safety before the strongest shaking began.
With hundreds confirmed dead thousands injured and many people still missing officials fear the humanitarian crisis could deepen in the coming days. As international assistance continues arriving, rescue teams remain focused on finding survivors while relief agencies begin the long process of recovery and rebuilding across the earthquake ravaged nation.