Caracas, Jun 26 (V7N) – Venezuela has been rocked by two powerful earthquakes that struck just 39 seconds apart, leaving widespread destruction across the country. At least 164 people have been confirmed dead, while nearly 1,000 others have been injured, authorities said. Rescue teams fear the death toll could rise as search operations continue.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquakes struck near the capital, Caracas, at 6:04 p.m. local time. The two quakes, occurring at a depth of 13.2 kilometres, measured magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5. Seismologists said the second quake released energy equivalent to nearly 100 million tons of TNT.
The tremors were felt across Caracas and the states of Miranda, La Guaira, Aragua, Carabobo and Falcon. Caracas, Miranda and La Guaira suffered the worst damage, with numerous high-rise buildings, bridges and other critical infrastructure either collapsing or sustaining severe damage.
The Venezuelan government has declared a nationwide state of emergency as rescue workers continue searching through the rubble for survivors. Emergency response teams are working around the clock, while electricity and communication services remain disrupted in several affected areas.
Thousands of residents fled their homes in panic following the earthquakes and have taken shelter in open spaces and along roadsides. Authorities believe many people may still be trapped beneath collapsed buildings.
More than 20 aftershocks have been recorded since the main earthquakes. The country's meteorological department has warned that additional tremors ranging between magnitude 3 and 5 could continue over the coming days.
The United States has announced humanitarian assistance, including medical supplies and rescue teams, to support relief efforts. Several Latin American nations, including Brazil, Panama, Ecuador and El Salvador, have also pledged aid.
Interim President Delcy Rodríguez expressed condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones and urged the public to remain united during the crisis.
"Several states have been affected. Our first message to the people is to stay united in saving lives," she said.
Calling it "a very sensitive moment" for the nation, Rodríguez also appealed for public cooperation as emergency teams continue life-saving operations across the country.
END/SMA/AJ
