Severe Earthquakes Strike Venezuela

Two powerful earthquakes hit Venezuela on Wednesday evening, leading to widespread damage across the country and causing panic among residents. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency and reported the earthquakes measured at magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, beginning shortly after 6 p.m.

The quakes affected several states but did not immediately reveal figures for casualties or damage to structures. The earthquakes were the strongest to hit Venezuela in over a century, impacting regions as far as Brazil’s Amazon, approximately 1,700 kilometers (1,050 miles) from Caracas.

The earthquakes led to the closure of Simón Bolívar International Airport near Caracas, according to Rodríguez. Subways and natural gas services were also halted. Schools in affected areas will be closed, and some buildings will serve as shelters and donation centers. Rodríguez called for calm and requested health care professionals to assist the injured. She emphasized the need for unity during these challenging times.

The U.S. Geological Survey initially reported the first quake at a magnitude of 7.1 but later revised it to 7.2. Its epicenter was located west of Morón on the Caribbean coast, approximately 168 kilometers (104 miles) west of Caracas, with a depth of 22 kilometers (13.6 miles). The second earthquake, measuring 7.5, had a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and was centered 16 kilometers (10 miles) southwest of Morón.

Emergency Response and International Support

Falcon State reported 32 people hospitalized and 15 trapped. Regional governments, including the United States and various South American countries, offered assistance. The U.S. mobilized disaster assistance teams, while other countries highlighted the need for solidarity in aiding Venezuela.

El Salvador President Nayib Bukele offered aid and expressed solidarity, while Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa ordered immediate humanitarian aid delivery. Bolivia pledged readiness to provide assistance.

Widespread Reaction and Community Impact

During the earthquakes, residents evacuated buildings, witnessing collapsed walls and dust columns in Caracas. Roberto Gamas, a resident, described the strong force that shook buildings significantly. The events exacerbated conditions for Venezuelans, including those affected by the country’s prolonged crisis.

Opposition leader María Corina Machado expressed solidarity on social media, urging strength among Venezuelans. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello confirmed the quakes were felt across multiple states and emphasized caution concerning aftershocks.

Regional Context and Future Implications

The impact extended beyond Venezuela, with evacuations in Brazil and no damage reported in Colombia. Tsunami alerts were briefly issued and lifted. Though Venezuela is situated near several fault lines, it is less prone to earthquakes compared to regions on the Pacific coast.