Devastating Toll: Venezuela Earthquake Death Count Climbs to 920
As of June 26, 2026, Jorge Rodríguez, the President of Venezuela’s National Assembly, reported a grim update on the disaster: the death toll from the recent powerful earthquake has risen to 920. In addition, 3,360 people have been injured, and 383 residential buildings have been either completely destroyed or severely damaged, with the majority of these structural failures located in the Vargas state.
According to the Chinese Embassy in Venezuela, as of 5:00 PM local time on June 26, preliminary statistics confirm that 7 Chinese citizens have lost their lives in the “June 24” earthquake. Our hearts go out to the families of the victims.
The disaster struck on the evening of June 24, around 6:00 PM. The northern coastal region of Venezuela was hit by two consecutive earthquakes, both magnitude 7.0 or higher, within a single minute. The epicenter was located near Morón in Carabobo state, approximately 160 kilometers from the capital, Caracas.
UN Steps In: “Death Toll Could Rise Significantly”
Tom Fletcher, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, expressed deep concern on June 26. He noted that more than 50,000 people are currently missing and warned that the death toll “could increase significantly.” To support immediate relief efforts—including healthcare, shelter, food, and clean water—Fletcher has approved a $15 million draw from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund.
Traffic Chaos and Restricted Access in Vargas
Reports indicate that Rodríguez has urged the public to avoid traveling to Vargas state. This measure aims to prevent traffic gridlock and ensure that emergency vehicles can move freely to evacuate the injured and allow rescue teams to operate without hindrance.
Carlos Eduardo Cabello, Venezuela’s Minister of Interior, Justice, and Peace, announced a strict traffic control measure effective from 8:00 PM on June 26. The influx of vehicles and civilians into the heavily affected Vargas state had severely congested roads, hampering rescue operations. While entry will be restricted, registered volunteers with proper identification will still be permitted access.
Medical Mobilization and International Aid Arrives
Carlos Alvarado, Venezuela’s Minister of Health, stated on June 26 that over 5,000 medical personnel have been urgently mobilized nationwide. In the worst-affected areas of Vargas, specifically the Catia La Mar region, the military has collaborated to set up field hospitals to alleviate the immense pressure on local healthcare facilities.
International solidarity is already taking shape. Rescue teams from Germany, Switzerland, and Spain arrived on June 26 to assist with search and rescue operations. Additionally, teams from Peru and Jordan departed on the same day, while Brazil, the UK, and other nations have also dispatched aid. The European Commission announced on June 26 that it has sent rescue teams and emergency supplies, with several EU member states providing bilateral assistance. The EU reiterated its readiness to offer further support as the situation evolves.
China’s Response: Condolences and Humanitarian Aid
At a regular press conference on June 26, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jia Kun confirmed that the Chinese government has extended its deepest condolences to the Venezuelan government and people. In response to Venezuela’s gratitude, China, alongside the Chinese Red Cross, is preparing to provide emergency humanitarian assistance. The Chinese side has expressed its willingness to offer further support based on the developing needs of the disaster zone.
As the dust settles, the focus remains on saving lives and rebuilding communities. We stand with the people of Venezuela during this difficult time.
