Limited Damage to Oil Facilities from Venezuela Earthquake

By Hwang Jin Hyun Posted : June 25, 2026, 15:48 Updated : June 25, 2026, 15:48
Residents stand near a building destroyed by an earthquake in La Guaira, Venezuela, on June 25. [Photo: Reuters/Yonhap]
Reports of damage have emerged across Venezuela following a powerful earthquake, but major oil infrastructure appears to have escaped significant harm.

According to Reuters on June 24, most cities reporting serious damage do not host major oil facilities. In Maracaibo, a city near the large oil hub, local authorities reported no injuries.

Venezuela is believed to hold the world's largest oil reserves and heavily relies on oil exports for its economy. However, decades of mismanagement, lack of investment, and U.S.-led sanctions have left oil production far below its capacity.

Energy companies operating in Venezuela are currently assessing the condition of their oil fields, plants, and refineries while ensuring the safety of their employees.

Shell, a British oil company considering gas field development in Venezuela, confirmed to Reuters that all local staff are accounted for and reported no injuries.

However, concerns have been raised about potential disruptions to oil production if power outages persist. One source indicated that oil output could be affected until electricity supply is restored.



* This article has been translated by AI.

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