Venezuela earthquake recovery aided by satellite connectivity from Digitel and Telesat

Two major earthquakes struck northwestern and central Venezuela on June 24, killing at least 2,300 people and leaving nearly 50,000 missing. The disasters destroyed much of the country's physical and digital infrastructure, sharply reducing internet, power, and telecom services.

Digitel, in partnership with SpaceX's Starlink, deployed low‑Earth‑orbit satellite kits to backhaul mobile base stations in La Guaira, restoring SMS and mobile service where towers were down. The company also provided free Wi‑Fi points and mobile stations, keeping communities and emergency responders connected.

Canadian satellite operator Telesat donated capacity from its Telstar 19 Vantage satellite to local provider Top Communications, enabling free mobile Wi‑Fi stations for first responders and affected residents. Both initiatives aim to quickly re‑establish communications and support rescue operations.