Venezuela is racing to find survivors after two powerful earthquakes struck minutes apart, killing at least 32 people, injuring about 700 and damaging buildings across the capital, Caracas.
The first quake, measured at magnitude 7.2, hit near Moron in Yaracuy state at about 6:04pm local time on Wednesday, June 24. A stronger magnitude 7.5 quake followed less than a minute later in the same area, according to the United States Geological Survey.
Acting President Delcy Rodriguez declared a state of emergency and said the country’s main airport, Simon Bolivar International Airport in Caracas, had been closed because of damage. Classes were suspended and health workers were ordered to report to hospitals and clinics as emergency teams searched collapsed buildings.
“Following the powerful earthquakes that struck the country this afternoon, we have declared a state of emergency across the entire national territory,” Rodriguez said in a televised address. “We call on all citizens to remain alert, stay safe and remain as calm as possible.”
Officials said the Altamira and El Paraiso neighbourhoods of Caracas were among the worst-hit areas. Damage was also reported in La Guaira and other parts of central Venezuela, while tremors were felt in neighbouring Colombia and as far away as Brazil’s Amazon region.
The USGS warned that “high casualties and extensive damage are probable”, citing vulnerable construction in parts of the affected region. Authorities said the toll could rise as rescuers reach damaged buildings and coastal communities.
International offers of help began arriving within hours. US President Donald Trump said Washington was ready to assist, while El Salvador said it was preparing to send rescue workers and medical supplies.
For now, rescue crews are still digging through rubble as aftershocks continue to rattle parts of the country.
