On 24 June 2026, two catastrophic earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck the central-northern region of Venezuela, causing widespread destruction. In La Guaira, a 12-story apartment building pancaked, trapping many residents under the rubble.

Roberto Rodríguez, 24, who survived the earthquakes, described the chaos: “You could hear people screaming and calling for help.” He recalled running and shouting to others to flee moments before the building collapsed.

Among those trapped was 20-year-old Dayra Morales, who was pinned from her feet downward. Neighbors quickly assisted in her rescue. Although she sustained injuries, Morales was treated and is currently staying at a temporary shelter at the José María Vargas sports complex with over 1,000 displaced people.

Remarkably, medical examinations on 2 July revealed that Morales is pregnant. Despite falling from the sixth floor and being trapped under heavy rubble, “nothing happened to the baby,” according to Rodríguez.

The earthquakes have resulted in nearly 5,000 deaths and over 16,000 injuries. Thousands remain unaccounted for, and approximately 18,000 people have lost their homes, prompting the establishment of temporary shelters.

Health providers, in coordination with the government and partners, are distributing medical supplies for clinical management of sexual violence and conducting safety assessments at shelters to protect displaced populations.

This rescue and the survival of the unborn child are considered miraculous amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

Sources