Venezuela rocked by 7.5, 7.2 earthquakes: What happened and what we know | Earthquakes News
Venezuela Declares State of Emergency Following Powerful Earthquakes
Venezuela has declared a state of emergency after two earthquakes measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck the country, resulting in at least 32 fatalities and approximately 700 injuries. The quakes, which struck Wednesday evening, caused extensive damage, particularly in the capital city of Caracas.
Widespread search and rescue operations are currently underway as emergency crews sift through the rubble of collapsed buildings. The government has closed Simon Bolivar International Airport in Caracas and suspended classes, mobilizing health workers to respond to the crisis.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has warned of potential high casualties and extensive damage, labeling the events among the strongest earthquakes in more than a century. In a statement, U.S. President Donald Trump described the situation as resulting in a “devastating number of deaths.”
Initial reports indicate that the tremors occurred around 6:04 p.m. local time (22:04 GMT) while the nation was observing a national holiday in commemoration of the 1821 Battle of Carabobo. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez made a televised address urging healthcare professionals to report to hospitals and clinics to assist the injured.
According to reports from Al Jazeera correspondent Teresa Bo in Bogota, the most severe damage appears to be concentrated in the Altamira district of Caracas. Emergency crews have been actively rescuing survivors from the debris of a 22-story building, while families continue to search for missing loved ones. Authorities are still evaluating the full extent of the damage.
As for the victims, Rodriguez confirmed the death toll stands at 32, with the number of injured continuing to rise alongside a series of aftershocks. Specific details regarding the victims, including age, gender, and location, have yet to be released.
The most affected areas in Caracas include the Altamira and El Paraiso neighborhoods, while La Guaira and other central regions have also reported damage. The USGS anticipates that the death toll could significantly increase, given the prevalence of unreinforced masonry structures in the region.
The seismic activity originated in Yaracuy state, west of Caracas. The first tremor, measuring 7.2, struck at a depth of 22 kilometers (14 miles), followed by the stronger 7.5 quake less than a minute later at a depth of about 10 kilometers (6 miles). Although the epicentres were located outside the capital, tremors were felt across much of central and western Venezuela and reached neighboring Colombia and Brazil’s Amazon region, over 1,700 kilometers (1,050 miles) away.
In response to the destruction, the Venezuelan government has urged calm among residents while search and rescue operations continue. Experts anticipate the possibility of strong aftershocks in the coming days.
International Response
Governments throughout the Americas have expressed solidarity with Venezuela and are mobilizing humanitarian assistance.
On his Truth Social platform, President Trump stated the U.S. “stands ready, willing, and able to help,” adding that all government agencies are prepared to respond swiftly. As part of U.S. support, the administration confirmed plans to send search and rescue teams, medical supplies, and other humanitarian aid.
El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele announced plans to dispatch 300 paramedics and additional rescue workers, along with 50 tonnes of medical supplies and equipment.
Ecuador and Panama have also committed to providing humanitarian assistance. Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa emphasized the importance of prioritizing humanitarian needs despite political differences.
Both Mexico and Brazil have expressed solidarity with Venezuela, stating they are closely monitoring the situation and reported no immediate concerns regarding their citizens’ safety.
