On June 24, 2026, two powerful earthquakes measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck northern Venezuela within less than a minute of each other. The epicenters were located offshore, approximately 160 km west of Caracas, causing widespread destruction across the country’s northern coastal region. Venezuela lies along the active boundary between the Caribbean and South American tectonic plates, making it highly vulnerable to seismic activity. Initial reports indicate that thousands of buildings were damaged or destroyed, with severe impacts on residential areas, public infrastructure, and historic urban centres. The worst-affected areas include the coastal state of La Guaira, particularly Catia La Mar and Caraballeda, as well as parts of Caracas and Valencia, where numerous buildings collapsed and rescue operations remain ongoing.