Venezuela quakes kill 32, hundreds injured

Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela within moments of each other, causing widespread destruction across the country and leaving at least

Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela within moments of each other, causing widespread destruction across the country and leaving at least 32 people dead and hundreds injured.

According to authorities, the first earthquake measured 7.2 in magnitude and was followed less than a minute later by a stronger 7.5-magnitude tremor. The powerful back-to-back quakes shook large parts of the country, with the capital city of Caracas and nearby coastal areas suffering the worst damage.

Government officials said more than 700 people were injured as rescue teams continued searching for survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings. Emergency authorities warned that the death toll could rise significantly as many affected areas remain inaccessible and search operations continue through the night.

La Guaira province, home to the country’s main international airport, was among the hardest-hit regions. Several residential and commercial buildings collapsed, forcing emergency crews to launch large-scale rescue operations.

Interim President Delcy Rodriguez described the disaster as a national tragedy and expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones. She said international rescue teams and humanitarian assistance from friendly countries were expected to arrive shortly to support local efforts.

Residents across Caracas rushed into the streets as buildings swayed violently. Many described scenes of panic as people fled homes and offices while debris fell from damaged structures.

Witnesses said the earthquakes struck with little warning, causing power outages and communication disruptions in several districts. Hospitals in the capital activated emergency protocols and called in additional medical staff to handle the growing number of casualties.

Authorities briefly issued a tsunami warning following the earthquakes, but the alert was later withdrawn after experts determined there was no further danger to coastal communities.

Several countries offered assistance and expressed solidarity with Venezuela as emergency services worked to clear rubble and locate survivors. The United States also announced its readiness to provide humanitarian support and disaster relief assistance.

Officials closed the country’s largest airport after reports of structural damage, while schools and public institutions were ordered to remain shut for the remainder of the week.

Despite the widespread destruction in residential areas, initial assessments suggested that major oil facilities and refineries had escaped serious damage. However, officials warned that prolonged electricity outages could disrupt industrial operations in the coming days.

Venezuela lies in an earthquake-prone region where major tectonic plates meet, making the country vulnerable to seismic activity. Authorities have urged residents to remain alert for aftershocks and follow safety instructions issued by emergency agencies.