Deadly Earthquake Strikes Venezuela

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported on a 7.5 magnitude earthquake that hit Venezuela on Wednesday. It is considered the largest of its kind in the region since 1900.

The last notable earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.7, occurred near the Venezuelan coast on October 29, 1900. The USGS’s estimate is based on historical damage reports, as modern recording tools were unavailable at that time, according to geophysicist Paule Earle.

The 1900 earthquake, known as the San Narciso Earthquake, severely impacted Caracas. It resulted in 21 fatalities and 50 injuries. Additionally, numerous structures, including churches and public buildings, were destroyed, displacing many residents.

The New York Times described the event on November 17, 1900, noting the collapse of 300 buildings, including university towers and several church spires. Government buildings also sustained damage, forcing many Venezuelans to live in tents.

The USGS has hinted that Wednesday’s earthquake might be more devastating than the 1900 quake. It followed a 7.2 magnitude quake, explained as a foreshock to the main 7.5 quake.

A connection between the two events is suggested by William Barnhart, a USGS geophysicist.

He explained that stress changes in the ground from one earthquake can trigger subsequent quakes. This is likely the case in Venezuela, positioned between the South American and Caribbean tectonic plates.

Venezuela has experienced other significant earthquakes, including a 7.3 magnitude quake on August 21, 2018, and a 7.0 magnitude quake on July 9, 1997.

Amy Graff, from The New York Times, focuses on weather, wildfires, and earthquakes.