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Satellite Image Shows Ground Shifts From Venezuela Earthquakes
The European Space Agency released an interferogram from Sentinel-1 satellites comparing observations before and after magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes struck on June 24. The map covers the Caracas area and aligns with the San Sebastián fault system.
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Two earthquakes struck Venezuela on June 24, 2026; the European Space Agency released a satellite image showing resulting ground shifts, Wired reported. Scientists created the interferogram by comparing Sentinel-1 radar observations taken on June 18 and June 25.
Repeating colored bands in the northern section of the map indicate cumulative ground displacement of about 30 centimeters around Caracas.
The bands follow the path of the San Sebastián fault system, where the main deformation occurred. The satellites use radar signals to measure changes too small to see with the naked eye, and the image does not specify whether the ground rose, fell, or shifted laterally. Rescue teams continue searching for victims and clearing collapsed buildings in Venezuela and other Caribbean regions.
A photograph dated June 28 shows damage in Caraballeda, La Guaira. NASA activated its Disaster Response Coordination System to identify risk sites, while space agencies and data centers worldwide share information to support recovery efforts.
