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Twin earthquakes a double crisis - 6th July 2026

Northern Venezuela's been hit by two major earthquakes, which have caused massive damage. The first earthquake had a magnitude of 7.2.

The second earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.5, is the most powerful to hit Venezuela in over a century. The twin earthquakes happened within seconds, and their epicentres were only 5 to 10 kilometres apart.

Satellite images of the damage have been analysed by NASA scientists. Their assessment is that 58,870 buildings have been damaged or completely destroyed.

Thousands of people have been made homeless. Over 2,600 deaths have been reported and thousands more are still missing. The final death count could reach 10,000.

People have complained about the Venezuelan government's slow disaster response. Swift action's essential during the 48 to 72 hours after an earthquake. This is known as the golden window. It's the main opportunity to save the lives of people who are trapped under buildings.

Many areas haven't received any government relief efforts. People's friends and neighbours are attempting to move concrete and rescue families. However, without machinery or expertise, their success is limited.

3,681 rescue workers have been flown into Venezuela from 30 countries. Alongside them, Venezuela's received 27 rescue vehicles, 118 search dogs and 1,086 tonnes of humanitarian relief. The USA's doubled its promised financial aid to $300 million.

A lack of systems, skills and resources has left Venezuela struggling to cope with the situation. This is partly due to years of ineffective government. Another factor's political interference from the USA.

Now, this disaster will also shape Venezuela's future.