- Death toll from the recent Venezuelan earthquakes has risen to 589, with nearly 3,000 injured as reported by acting President Delcy Rodríguez.
- SOUTHCOM leadership, led by U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Kevin J. Jarrard, has arrived in Venezuela to coordinate earthquake relief efforts.
- Neighbors are actively digging through rubble in Venezuela to search for loved ones as the death toll continues to climb.
- The earthquakes, which struck on June 24, 2026, had magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, making them the strongest to hit Venezuela since 1900.
- Rescue efforts are ongoing, with reports of thousands still missing and a critical lack of medical supplies in the affected areas.
- International aid is being mobilized, with rescue workers and supplies arriving from various countries, including Switzerland.
U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) leadership, including Maj. Gen. Kevin J. Jarrard, has arrived in Venezuela to coordinate relief efforts following devastating earthquakes that struck on June 24, 2026.24
The quakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, have resulted in a rising death toll of 589 and nearly 3,000 injuries, with many still unaccounted for.13
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced the updated toll, stating, “It brings us joy that they can embrace their families and loved ones,” as rescue crews from around the world mobilize to assist.
The interim government formally requested U.S. support, leading to the deployment of military resources to facilitate the rapid movement of humanitarian aid.
The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed that the earthquakes were centered near Moron, approximately 170 kilometers west of Caracas.
As rescue efforts continue, Venezuelan authorities are diverting teams to La Guaira, a region historically prone to disasters.56
The situation remains dire, with reports of hospitals overwhelmed and a critical lack of medical supplies.
The number of casualties is expected to rise as frantic searches for the missing persist, with neighbors digging through rubble in affected areas.
“There is a critical lack of medicine and medical supplies,” said Dr. Rodriguez, highlighting the urgent need for assistance.
“SOUTHCOM leadership has arrived in Venezuela to coordinate relief efforts following devastating earthquakes. The death toll has risen to 589, with nearly 3,000 injured as rescue operations continue.”
NPR
BBC
