Satellite Assessment Reveals Widespread Destruction
Preliminary satellite data from NASA indicates that more than 58,000 buildings were likely damaged or destroyed in Venezuela following twin earthquakes on June 25, 2026. The quakes, measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, were the strongest to hit the South American nation in over a century, killing at least 1,700 people and leaving thousands missing.
Analysis by Oregon State Researchers
Researchers Corey Scher and Jamon Van Den Hoek of Oregon State University analyzed satellite radar data from the European Space Agency's Sentinel-1 satellite, gathered on June 25, the day after the earthquakes. Their preliminary assessment concluded that approximately 58,870 buildings were likely damaged or destroyed across the affected region.
“This is a preliminary, rapid assessment. It reflects abrupt surface change consistent with damage,” the researchers wrote. They emphasized that the figure should be considered an indicator and has not been verified on the ground.
Contrasting Official Figures
National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez reported on Monday that 855 buildings had been damaged, including 189 that experienced “total collapses.” The significant discrepancy between satellite data and official reports highlights the challenges of ground-based assessment in the disaster zone.
NASA's Role in Disaster Response
NASA stated that its satellites are “providing critical support, capturing imagery and data to help teams on the ground assess impacts and guide response efforts.” The space agency continues to monitor the situation as rescue and recovery operations proceed.
