Caracas, Jun 25 (V7N)- Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, has declared a nationwide state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes struck the country within seconds of each other, causing widespread damage and panic across several regions.
The earthquakes were felt at approximately 6:04 p.m. local time on Wednesday (June 24). According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the first quake measured 7.2 in magnitude and struck near Morón, about 168 kilometers west of Caracas. It was followed less than a minute later by a stronger 7.5-magnitude earthquake in the same area. Several aftershocks were also reported.
Residents rushed into the streets in fear as strong tremors shook buildings across the capital and surrounding regions. Authorities warned of the possibility of further aftershocks and urged citizens to remain cautious.
Several buildings reportedly collapsed in Caracas, including structures in the Altamira area, while significant damage was reported in other parts of the country. Simón Bolívar International Airport, which serves Caracas, was temporarily closed after sustaining damage during the disaster.
Emergency response teams have been deployed to affected areas, and rescue operations are underway to search for people trapped beneath collapsed structures. Schools and some public services have also been suspended as authorities assess the full extent of the damage.
The USGS has warned that the earthquakes could result in a high number of casualties and extensive damage across a wide area. However, official casualty figures remain unclear as rescue efforts continue. Early reports indicate dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries, with authorities expecting the toll to rise.
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