Caracas, June 25 — Venezuelan authorities have suspended schools, metro, and rail services across the country after two powerful earthquakes struck within minutes, causing widespread damage and triggering emergency measures.
According to reports from local media outlet La Patilla, the government announced the temporary closure of educational institutions and the suspension of non-essential activities nationwide. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez made the announcement in a national address, saying that military forces had been mobilized to assist in rescue operations.
Rodríguez said the Commander General of the Bolivarian National Guard would oversee the emergency response.
The earthquakes also caused severe damage to infrastructure, including the Maiquetía International Airport in Caracas, forcing authorities to shut down the airport immediately.
The United States Geological Survey reported that the first quake, measuring 7.2 magnitude, struck near San Felipe, about 284 kilometers west of Caracas, at 10:04 pm local time on Wednesday. Moments later, a second 7.5 magnitude quake hit near Yumar, around 293 kilometers west of the capital.
USGS warned of possible large-scale casualties and extensive destruction, estimating that the death toll could exceed 10,000. However, officials have not yet released any confirmed figures on casualties or damage.
Emergency response efforts are ongoing as the country braces for aftershocks and further disruptions.
