Background
The seismic events of June 2026 caused noticeable ground deformation across parts of Venezuela. By processing interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) data from the NISAR satellite, researchers have mapped the extent and magnitude of these movements.
Methodology
NISAR, a joint NASA‑ISRO mission, operates in both L‑band and S‑band frequencies, providing high‑resolution interferograms. Comparing pre‑event and post‑event images allows detection of surface shifts with millimetre precision.
Findings for La Guaira
Results indicate horizontal displacements of up to 15 cm and vertical uplifts of up to 8 cm in the La Guaira region. The most pronounced deformation aligns with the coastal strip and adjacent hills, where tectonic stress was greatest.
Broader regional impact
Nearby towns such as Maiquetía and Chuao also exhibited measurable movement, though at lower magnitudes (5‑10 cm horizontally, 3‑5 cm vertically). These shifts may affect infrastructure, including roads, bridges and utility networks, over the longer term.
Future monitoring
Ongoing NISAR observations will track the post‑seismic evolution and help identify emerging hazards for local communities. Further studies aim to correlate the observed ground displacement with seismic parameters to improve hazard models.