Caracas, Venezuela: Venezuela has been struck by two powerful earthquakes that caused widespread destruction across the country’s northern region, flattening buildings, damaging infrastructure, and triggering an international humanitarian response. Rescue teams continue searching through the rubble, raising fears that the death toll could increase significantly.
According to international reports, the twin earthquakes—measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude—struck within less than a minute of each other near Venezuela’s northern coast. The tremors were felt across Caracas and neighboring states, causing panic as residents rushed into the streets.
The destruction has been severe. Residential buildings, hospitals, roads, and public infrastructure suffered extensive damage, while thousands of people have been displaced. Emergency shelters have been opened, and rescue workers are continuing operations amid concerns over powerful aftershocks.
International assistance has begun arriving from several countries, including the United States, Colombia, Mexico, France, Spain, Italy, and China. The United Nations is coordinating humanitarian relief, while organizations such as World Central Kitchen have started providing food and emergency support to affected communities.
Reuters reported that initial casualty figures remain incomplete as search-and-rescue operations continue.
“The initial casualty figures are incomplete as rescue operations continue.” — Interim President Delcy Rodríguez, quoted by Reuters.
ABC News described scenes of panic through eyewitness accounts from survivors.
“The floor under me was shaking.” — An American tourist, quoted by ABC News.
Al Jazeera reported that the disaster could become one of Venezuela’s deadliest natural catastrophes in recent decades, citing assessments by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
“US Geological Survey says casualties could range from 10,000 to 100,000 people.” — Al Jazeera, citing USGS.
The Wall Street Journal noted that the disaster has exposed the country’s fragile infrastructure and emergency response capabilities, which have been weakened by years of economic hardship.
Authorities continue to warn residents about possible aftershocks and have urged people to avoid damaged structures. Emergency crews remain engaged in rescue operations as hopes fade of finding more survivors beneath collapsed buildings.
This is a developing story, and casualty figures and damage assessments are expected to change as rescue operations continue.
