Powerful Twin Earthquakes Strike Venezuela, Dozens Dead and Thousands Feared Trapped

CARACAS: Venezuela has been rocked by two powerful earthquakes that struck within minutes of each other, causing widespread destruction across the country and prompting fears of a major humanitarian disaster.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck first, followed less than a minute later by a stronger magnitude 7.5 quake. The tremors hit on Wednesday evening and were felt across large parts of the country, including the capital, Caracas. ([Reuters][1])

Reports indicate that dozens of buildings collapsed in Caracas and other cities, leaving many people feared trapped beneath the rubble. Emergency rescue teams have launched large-scale search and recovery operations in the worst-affected areas. ([The Guardian][2])

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared the disaster a national emergency, confirming at least 32 deaths and more than 700 injuries. Officials warned that the casualty toll is expected to rise as rescuers continue searching collapsed buildings. The heavily damaged Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía has been closed, while schools and several public services have been suspended. ([The Washington Post][3])

The USGS has warned that the disaster could result in very high casualties and extensive damage. Preliminary estimates suggest the final death toll could range from thousands to tens of thousands if the worst-case scenario materializes. ([New York Post][4])

The earthquakes also triggered panic across the region, with numerous aftershocks reported. Authorities have urged residents to avoid damaged structures and remain alert for further seismic activity. ([eNCA][5])

Meanwhile, a separate magnitude 5.6 earthquake was reported in Northern California, prompting authorities to issue alerts and monitor the situation, though no major damage was immediately reported. ([Reddit][6])

US President Donald Trump described the initial reports from Venezuela as “not good” and said American agencies had been instructed to provide assistance if needed. Several countries have also offered support as Venezuela assesses the full scale of the disaster. ([Reuters][1])