Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Reaches 247, Over 40,000 Missing; India Launches Operation Amistad
- By Thetripurapost Web Desk, Caracas
- Jun 26, 2026
- 130
A devastating series of earthquakes has plunged Venezuela into a humanitarian crisis, with the confirmed death toll rising to 247 and more than 4,532 people injured. Authorities fear the number of casualties could increase significantly as rescue operations continue across the disaster-hit South American nation.
The twin earthquakes struck Venezuela on June 25, coinciding with the country's national holiday commemorating the historic Battle of Carabobo of 1821. Since a large section of the population remained indoors to observe the holiday and watch FIFA World Cup matches, officials believe many people may still be trapped beneath collapsed buildings.
More Than 40,000 People Missing
According to government figures released late Thursday, over 40,000 people remain missing, raising concerns that the actual scale of the disaster could be far worse than currently estimated.
Also Read: Venezuela Earthquake Today: Twin 7.5 and 7.2 Quakes Rock Country, Thousands Feared Dead
Local media reports indicate that rescue personnel are still hearing voices from beneath the rubble in several affected areas, prompting emergency teams to intensify search and rescue efforts.
Hundreds of residential buildings, commercial establishments and public infrastructure have reportedly suffered extensive damage, leaving thousands homeless.
USGS Warns Death Toll Could Rise Sharply
The United States Geological Survey USGS has issued alarming projections regarding the potential human cost of the disaster.
According to preliminary assessments, there is a 44 percent probability that fatalities could exceed 10,000, while there is a 30 percent chance that the death toll may surpass 100,000, depending on the severity of structural collapses and the pace of rescue operations.
Also Read: Philippines Earthquake 2026: 7.8 Magnitude Quake Triggers Tsunami Alerts Across Southeast Asia, Multiple Casualties Reported
Experts have warned that the final casualty count may take several days or even weeks to determine.
Economic Losses May Cross ₹9.5 Trillion
Economists estimate that the catastrophic earthquake could inflict losses of nearly ₹9.5 trillion on Venezuela's already fragile economy.
In view of the unprecedented destruction, Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has declared a nationwide state of emergency, enabling authorities to mobilize resources swiftly and coordinate international humanitarian assistance.
International rescue teams and aid agencies have started arriving in the affected regions to support local emergency responders.
India Launches 'Operation Amistad' To Assist Venezuela
India has extended humanitarian support to Venezuela by launching 'Operation Amistad', aimed at assisting relief and rescue operations in the earthquake-ravaged nation.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced that two Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft, carrying an Indian Army field hospital unit and over 35 tonnes of relief materials, have departed for Venezuela.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with Acting President Delcy Rodríguez and conveyed India's solidarity with the Venezuelan people during this difficult period.
Reaffirming India's commitment, Jaishankar stated that New Delhi stands firmly with Venezuela and will provide all possible assistance in rescue, medical and humanitarian operations.
Global Community Rallies Behind Venezuela
As hundreds are still feared trapped under collapsed structures, countries across the world have begun sending rescue teams, medical supplies and humanitarian aid to support Venezuela's ongoing relief efforts.
The coming days are expected to be crucial as emergency responders race against time to locate survivors and provide assistance to affected communities.
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