Earthquakes Hit Venezuela, Sparking Fears of Major Damage

Two powerful earthquakes struck central Venezuela on Wednesday, raising fears of significant destruction and casualties, according to reports from the United States Geological Survey. The tremors were strong enough to shake buildings and cause power outages across various parts of the country, including the capital city, Caracas.

Images and videos circulating on social media reveal the extent of the damage, with some structures reduced to rubble. The full extent of casualties remains unclear at this time. Residents in the area reported feeling intense shaking as the earthquakes hit.

Venezuela, known for having some of the world’s largest oil reserves, has faced challenges recently. The oil industry has struggled due to aging infrastructure and the impact of U.S. sanctions. The country is also battling triple-digit inflation, which has compounded the difficulties faced by its population. Venezuela’s political landscape took a dramatic turn in January when the U.S. military seized the former leader, Nicolás Maduro.

Photographs from the scene depict various rescue efforts. Emergency workers were seen attempting to free those trapped under collapsed buildings. Municipal police officers and rescue workers coordinated efforts at the sites of destruction. Images captured women and men being evacuated from the ruins on stretchers, illustrating the dire circumstances amid the rubble.

Scenes from Caracas and other affected areas show residents coping with the aftermath. Some images capture individuals embracing or praying in the streets, a vivid representation of the community’s response to the crisis. While officials and first responders continue to assess the damage and support those affected, the full impact of these earthquakes is still unfolding.