Latest Update – July 1, 2026
Advisory Type: Natural Disaster
Port: La Guaira, Venezuela
Impact: Complete Closure to Commercial Operations
Date Issued: 1 July 2026
Expected Duration: Until approximately 15 July 2026 (subject to further assessment)
Summary
Following the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes that struck Venezuela on 24 June 2026, significant disruption continues to affect logistics and port operations across the country. The Port of La Guaira remains closed to commercial cargo and is currently operating exclusively as a humanitarian relief hub.
Commercial vessels and cargo originally intended for La Guaira are being redirected to alternative ports, primarily Puerto Cabello.
Port Status
Port of La Guaira
The Port of La Guaira has been the most severely affected due to its proximity to the earthquake epicentre.
- Significant structural damage was reported across warehouses and container handling facilities.
- The port was initially declared inoperative following the earthquakes.
- Since 29 June 2026, the port has been reactivated exclusively for humanitarian and emergency relief operations.
- Commercial cargo operations remain suspended pending completion of structural assessments and safety inspections.
- Some warehouse areas are currently being utilised for emergency response activities.
Port of Puerto Cabello
Puerto Cabello is currently serving as Venezuela’s primary commercial gateway.
- Port operations remain fully operational.
- Commercial cargo originally destined for La Guaira is being redirected through Puerto Cabello.
- Berthing schedules, documentation processing, and cargo clearance may experience delays due to increased traffic volumes.
Other Venezuelan Ports
The following ports remain operational with limited disruption:
- José
- Guanta
- Puerto La Cruz
- Pertigalete
Expected impacts include:
- Delays in customs processing
- Slower vessel clearance procedures
- Intermittent telecommunications disruptions
- Reduced staffing levels under the national state of emergency
Port of Maracaibo
- Operating normally.
- No significant structural damage has been reported.
- Minor delays to customs and administrative processes may occur due to nationwide emergency measures and telecommunications disruptions.
Port of Guaranao (Punto Fijo, Falcón)
- Port infrastructure remains intact.
- No structural damage has been reported.
- Nearby oil export terminals at Amuay and Cardón continue normal operations.
Orinoco River Terminals (Ciudad Bolívar)
- Operations continue normally.
- No significant damage has been reported following the seismic events.
Oil and Energy Infrastructure
Venezuela’s major crude oil export terminals and refinery facilities, including Amuay and Cardón, continue to operate without significant structural damage.
However, domestic transportation and logistics constraints may result in localised delays.
Air and Land Transport
Airports
- Simón Bolívar International Airport (Maiquetía) remains closed to commercial traffic due to earthquake damage.
- Commercial and cargo flights have been diverted primarily to Arturo Michelena International Airport in Valencia.
Road Transport
- The Caracas-La Guaira highway remains open for the movement of humanitarian aid and essential supplies.
- Traffic restrictions remain in place on several national road corridors, particularly in the Morón area.
Operational Impact
Customers should anticipate:
- Suspension of commercial cargo handling at La Guaira.
- Diversion of cargo to Puerto Cabello and other operational ports.
- Potential congestion and operational delays at alternative gateways.
- Delays in customs, documentation, and inland transport across affected regions.
ISS continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as additional information becomes available.
Original Port Advisory – June 25, 2026
Following two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on the evening of 24 June, less than one minute apart, significant damage has been reported across several districts, including Caracas and the wider La Guaira area.
We confirm that the Port of La Guaira has not sustained any damage and remains fully operational.
However, disruptions are expected to supporting services for vessels, particularly those reliant on airport operations and other critical infrastructure, which have been impacted by the seismic events.
Clients are advised to monitor the situation closely and liaise with local Inchcape representatives regarding any potential service delays.
OFFICIAL STATEMENT UPDATE ON OPERATIONS IN VENEZUELA FOLLOWING SEISMIC EVENTS