Chile sends seismic experts to Venezuela to assess earthquake damage

Chile has announced the dispatch of a multidisciplinary mission of experts to Venezuela to assist in evaluating damage caused by the double earthquakes that struck the country on June 24. The mission, led by academics from the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (UC), includes 14 professionals specializing in seismic engineering, structural assessment, and disaster risk management.

This technical team will work alongside Venezuela’s Ministry of Transport and the Presidential Commission for the Evaluation of Infrastructure Habitability to support the reconstruction of damaged structures. Chilean Foreign Minister Francisco Pérez Mackenna stated that Chile intends to share its significant seismic experience to assist a country facing a complex situation.

The deployment follows the recent formalization of restored diplomatic ties between the two nations on August 6, following a rupture in 2024. This mission builds upon previous humanitarian support provided by the government of President José Antonio Kast, which included sending rescuers to assist in search and recovery efforts following the magnitude 7.5 and 7.2 earthquakes in Caracas and La Guaira.