Why Social Media Matters In A Disaster: 5 Lessons From Venezuela's Earthquake

Last Updated:June 25, 2026, 16:45 IST

Two earthquakes of magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 hit Venezuela, killing at least 164, injuring 971, UN experts urge to restore blocked social media and news for life saving information.

As rescue teams search through collapsed buildings after Venezuela was struck by two powerful earthquakes, United Nations experts have urged authorities to immediately restore access to social media and news outlets, calling the free flow of information a “matter of life and death".

The death toll from the magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes has risen to at least 164, while 971 people have been injured, according to interim President Delcy Rodriguez. The toll is expected to rise as rescuers continue operations in hard-hit areas, including La Guaira, north of Caracas. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela said unrestricted communication must be part of the emergency response, urging telecommunications regulator CONATEL to unblock social-media platforms and media websites. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

1. Alerts Can Give People Crucial Seconds

In the immediate aftermath of an earthquake, official alerts and verified updates can help people make life-saving choices: evacuating damaged buildings, avoiding unsafe roads, moving away from coastal areas where necessary, and checking on vulnerable relatives.

Smartphone-based warning systems can detect a quake after it begins and, in some locations, send alerts before stronger shaking reaches people farther from the epicentre. But such warnings are useful only when networks, devices and access to information are available.

2. Families Need A Way To Find Each Other

When phone lines are overloaded or homes are damaged, messaging platforms and social networks often become the quickest way for people to tell relatives they are safe, seek help or share the location of those missing.

In a disaster where buildings have collapsed and thousands may be displaced, limiting access to those channels can make it harder for families to locate loved ones and for responders to identify people who need urgent assistance.

3. Rescue Teams Depend On Real-Time Information

Social media posts, photos and videos can help emergency agencies map damage, identify blocked roads and flag locations where people may be trapped. They can also help volunteers, hospitals and aid groups coordinate food, shelter, blood donations and medical supplies.

Venezuela’s earthquakes damaged infrastructure in Caracas and forced the closure of the country’s main airport, making rapid, localised information especially important for relief operations. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

4. Rumours Spread Fast — So Verified Information Matters More

Disasters create an information vacuum that can quickly be filled by rumours, false casualty figures and misleading videos. Keeping credible news outlets, public agencies and emergency services accessible gives people a better chance of finding verified safety guidance.

UN experts said human rights should guide every part of Venezuela’s disaster response, stressing that there could be “no excuse" for delaying access to social media and media outlets after the quakes. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

5. Internet Access Is Part Of Disaster Preparedness

The Venezuela crisis shows that communications infrastructure is not just a convenience during an emergency. It is a core part of public safety, alongside ambulances, hospitals, evacuation routes and search-and-rescue teams.

Reporters Without Borders ranks Venezuela 159th out of 180 countries for press freedom, while censorship-monitoring group Venezuela Sin Filtro says more than 200 internet domains are blocked by the country’s main service providers. The UN experts said those restrictions should be lifted immediately as the country confronts the earthquake emergency. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

With aftershocks possible and rescue operations continuing, timely, reliable and accessible information could shape who gets help, how quickly they receive it and whether families are able to reconnect.

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