At least 32 people have been killed and more than 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela overnight, prompting authorities to declare a nationwide state of emergency and launch extensive rescue operations.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the two earthquakes measured 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, making them among the strongest seismic events recorded globally this year. The second and more powerful quake occurred at a shallow depth of approximately 10 kilometers, raising concerns over severe structural damage and a rising death toll.
State of Emergency Declared
Venezuelan interim President Delcy Rodríguez announced emergency measures in a televised address, describing the disaster as a serious national crisis with far-reaching consequences.
Authorities have suspended classes nationwide, halted railway services, and closed Caracas International Airport after sustaining damage from the tremors.
Videos circulating on social media showed several buildings collapsing in the capital, Caracas, while emergency teams continue searching through debris for survivors believed to be trapped beneath the rubble.
Experts Warn of Strong Aftershocks
Seismology expert Mahmoud Al-Qaryouti warned that significant aftershocks are highly likely in the coming days due to the strength of the main earthquakes.
He explained that Venezuela lies within an active seismic zone influenced by major tectonic plates, making further seismic activity expected.
“Given the magnitude of the main event, aftershocks could exceed 6.0 or even 6.5 on the Richter scale,” Al-Qaryouti said, while stressing that it remains impossible to predict exactly when they may occur.
According to the expert, aftershock activity could extend up to 100 kilometers from the epicenter.
International Assistance Mobilized
Several countries have offered support to Venezuela as rescue efforts continue.
The United States announced the formation of a crisis response team and said it is coordinating with Venezuelan authorities to deploy search-and-rescue personnel, along with humanitarian and medical assistance.
US President Donald Trump stated on Truth Social that Washington is “ready and willing” to assist Venezuela in dealing with the aftermath of the disaster.
Meanwhile, Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele said that 300 rescue workers, medical personnel, and 50 tons of humanitarian aid are prepared for immediate deployment to Caracas.
Brazil and several other countries have also offered assistance, while Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader confirmed that specialized military search-and-rescue teams will depart for Venezuela on Thursday.
Rescue Operations Continue
As emergency crews race against time to locate survivors, officials remain concerned that the casualty figures could rise further. Authorities are continuing damage assessments across affected regions while preparing for the possibility of additional powerful aftershocks in the coming days.
