Venezuela Declares Emergency After Quakes
Venezuela has declared a state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes struck near the country’s Caribbean coast, damaging buildings, disrupting services and triggering panic across Caracas and nearby regions.
Venezuela Earthquake Triggers Emergency Response
Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela on Wednesday evening, with the first measured at magnitude 7.2 and the second recorded at magnitude 7.5. The stronger tremor struck shortly after the first, in what was described as a rare earthquake doublet.
The epicentre was reported near Morón, west of Caracas, at a shallow depth of around 10 kilometres. Shallow earthquakes can cause stronger shaking at the surface, increasing the risk of damage to buildings and infrastructure.
Caracas Buildings Damaged After Powerful Tremors
The tremors were felt strongly in Caracas, where residents rushed out of homes and offices as buildings shook. Several structures were damaged, while authorities began assessing affected areas for possible collapses and trapped residents.
Simón Bolívar International Airport near Caracas was shut after reports of structural damage. Schools were also closed as officials moved to inspect buildings and prepare emergency shelters where required.
Venezuela Rescue Operations Continue
Emergency teams have been deployed across affected regions as rescue and relief operations continue. Authorities have warned residents to stay away from weakened buildings because of the risk of aftershocks.
Health workers were asked to report to hospitals as officials focused on treating the injured and assessing damage to roads, public buildings and essential services.
The earthquakes are among the strongest to hit Venezuela in decades and have renewed concerns over seismic risks along the boundary between the Caribbean and South American tectonic plates.
