Caracas, June 25: At least 32 people have been confirmed dead and more than 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela within 40 seconds on Wednesday evening, causing widespread destruction across the country.
According to acting President Delcy Rodríguez, rescue teams are continuing operations in Caracas and other affected cities, where victims are still being pulled from the rubble.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the twin earthquakes measured 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, hitting at around 6:04 pm local time. The epicenter was located off Venezuela’s northern coast, an area home to several major oil refineries.
The government has declared a nationwide state of emergency as emergency responders and security forces have been deployed to affected areas. Video footage verified by international media showed collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and panicked residents gathering in the streets with their families and pets.
Severe damage has been reported in the capital Caracas and the coastal city of Catia La Mar, where several hillside buildings were seen collapsing.
Authorities said many buildings in Venezuela were not constructed with earthquake-resistant technology, increasing the scale of the devastation. Several neighborhoods in Caracas and other regions remain without electricity, while the country’s main international airport has been shut down.
USGS warned that the humanitarian toll could rise significantly as aftershocks and structural collapses continue to threaten rescue efforts.
