Two earthquakes have struck Venezuela, affecting the capital Caracas. Acting President Rodríguez declared a state of emergency, while US geological authorities fear thousands of fatalities.
Two powerful earthquakes have rocked Venezuela, collapsing buildings in the capital, Caracas. The US Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the first quake at a magnitude of 7.2 and the second at 7.5, predicting that the death toll could be as high as 10,000.
In a public address, Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced a state of emergency, calling it a “serious incident with significant consequences.” However, she did not provide specific details regarding the extent of the damage or casualties within the initial hours post-quake.
Rodríguez emphasized that the priority now lies with rescue efforts. Schools have been suspended, train services halted, and the international airport in Caracas has ceased operations due to structural damage.
Hundreds of Thousands Affected
The epicenter of the first quake was situated about 28 kilometers west of Morón on the Caribbean coast and approximately 168 kilometers from Caracas, at a depth of 13 kilometers. The stronger aftershock occurred just 10 kilometers deep, around 16 kilometers from Morón.
In cities nearby, such as Puerto Cabello and San Felipe, home to over 400,000 people, residents evacuated swaying buildings in Caracas, many visibly shaken by the sight of collapsed walls and furniture exposed in the streets.
“Alarming Situations”
In two districts of the capital, which are usually bustling with restaurants and shops, plumes of dust were visible amidst the chaos.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello stated that the tremor was felt across several states and mentioned “alarming situations” in Altamira, Caracas, where buildings have collapsed. He urged citizens to remain outside due to the risk of further aftershocks causing additional damage.
Initially, the US Tsunami Warning Center issued alerts for Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and nearby islands including Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire. However, these warnings were lifted after approximately one hour.
