Post by : Shakul

Venezuela experienced one of the most devastating natural disasters in its recent history after two powerful earthquakes struck the country within just 39 seconds on Wednesday night. The first earthquake measured 7.2 magnitude and was recorded at 10:04 PM GMT, with its epicentre located about 21 kilometres west of the coastal town of Morón. Before people could recover from the first tremor, a second and stronger 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck just 39 seconds later, approximately 45 kilometres away. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) described the first quake as a foreshock and the second as the mainshock.

Epicentres, Depth And Aftershocks

According to the USGS, the 7.2-magnitude earthquake occurred at a depth of 21.9 kilometres, while the stronger 7.5-magnitude quake struck at a shallower depth of 10 kilometres, making the shaking even more intense across central and northern Venezuela. More than 20 aftershocks were recorded in the hours that followed, forcing thousands of residents to remain outdoors amid fears of additional seismic activity.

Buildings Collapse As Panic Grips Caracas

The strongest impact was felt in Caracas, where residential and commercial buildings suffered severe structural damage. Walls cracked, staircases collapsed and several buildings were reduced to rubble. Rescue teams rushed to search through damaged structures as frightened residents evacuated into open spaces. In one collapsed building alone, emergency responders rescued 18 survivors, while several others remained trapped beneath the debris.

Videos circulating online showed people running through shaking airport terminals, collapsing ceilings, damaged apartment buildings and thick clouds of dust covering streets across the capital. In another emotional scene, a resident was seen carrying two dogs to safety after escaping from a damaged building.

Airport Closed, Schools Shut And Emergency Declared

The powerful earthquakes also damaged Simon Bolivar International Airport, Venezuela's main international gateway. A section of the terminal roof collapsed, forcing authorities to suspend airport operations until safety inspections are completed. The government also ordered schools to remain closed for several days while emergency assessments continue.

Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodriguez declared a national state of emergency, urging citizens to stay calm and directing all healthcare workers to immediately report to hospitals to assist the injured.

Casualties Continue To Rise

Authorities confirmed at least three deaths in Caracas during the initial hours after the disaster. In Falcon State, officials reported that 32 people were hospitalised, while rescue teams continued efforts to reach at least 15 people believed trapped beneath collapsed structures.

Read Also:  Powerful Earthquake Hits Eastern Afghanistan 1,411 Dead Thousands Injured

The USGS warned that the final death toll could rise significantly as rescue operations continue. Based on the earthquake's magnitude, depth and affected population, the agency estimated fatalities could potentially range between 10,000 and 100,000, although official casualty figures remain far lower and continue to be updated.

Rescue Operations Underway Across Venezuela

Emergency crews, firefighters, military personnel and medical teams have been deployed across the affected regions. Rescue workers continue searching collapsed buildings while authorities inspect roads, bridges and public infrastructure for additional damage.

Several municipalities have established temporary shelters for displaced residents, while international partners, including the United States, have offered humanitarian assistance. Officials have urged citizens to avoid damaged buildings and remain alert due to continuing aftershocks.

One Of Venezuela's Strongest Earthquakes In Decades

Seismologists say the twin earthquakes rank among the strongest to strike Venezuela in more than a century and are being compared to the devastating 1967 Caracas earthquake. Experts believe the combination of a powerful foreshock immediately followed by a larger mainshock significantly increased the level of destruction.

As rescue operations continue, authorities are focusing on locating survivors, restoring essential services and assessing the full extent of damage across the country.

#Global News #Earthquake News #Disasters