The earthquakes that struck Venezuela on 24 June caused significant human suffering and loss of life, while severely affecting livelihoods, infrastructure, and essential services, resulting in a preliminary estimate of $6.7 billion in direct physical damage, equivalent to around 6% of GDP, according to a press release by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The figure stems from a satellite-based Rapid Digital Assessment (RAPIDA) carried out in the hours after the quake. While the economic impact is substantial, the greatest loss is borne by the people and communities. The assessment combined seismic modelling, satellite imagery, and population data. It offers an initial picture of damage across Venezuela’s hardest-hit regions.
The quakes, measuring magnitude 7.2 and 7.5, hit near Venezuela’s northern coast. Tremors were felt across major population and economically important areas, including Caracas and the states of La Guaira, Carabobo, Miranda, Yaracuy, and Aragua. UNDP estimates that 1.7 million structures were located in affected areas, including large numbers in the hardest-hit states. Satellite data also suggests possible power outages in parts of Carabobo, La Guaira, Caracas, and Aragua, based on drops in night-time lighting after the quake. Further satellite analysis is underway as clearer imagery becomes available.
The analysis found that around 8.6 million people were exposed to above moderate shaking across the country’s north, including around 2.1 million exposed to stronger shaking. As of 26 June, the official death toll stands at 920, yet the number of casualties is expected to rise as rescue operations continue. For millions of people across the affected areas, the road to recovery is only just beginning as they struggle to rebuild after devastating losses and uncertain livelihoods. Direct physical damage is estimated at $6.7 billion, with a range of $4.7 billion to $8.7 billion. The figure is driven by losses to housing and economic assets.
The preliminary assessment does not include infrastructure damage, wider economic disruption, and longer-term reconstruction costs. While estimates of the total impact are expected to evolve as additional information becomes available, the total impact is typically calculated as 1.5 to 3 times the direct damage.
“The speed and accuracy of early assessments are essential for an effective response,” said Luis Francisco Thais, UNDP Resident Representative in Venezuela. “Tools like RAPIDA help us make faster, evidence-based decisions to support affected communities. At the same time, every crisis is an opportunity to rethink development strategies with resilience at their core.”
UNDP’s AI-powered Rapid Digital Assessment, RAPIDA, combines satellite imagery and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) technology to provide instant situational awareness. High-resolution imagery is used to detect damage, identify vulnerable populations, and support coordinated interventions within 72 hours of a crisis. Thais stated that recovery must not only restore what was lost but also build a more sustainable future. Further satellite analysis will support authorities in assessing casualties and displacement. The assessment offers a starting point for evidence-based response across the affected regions.
