Venezuela has declared a nationwide state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes struck the country’s Caribbean coast within seconds, causing extensive damage, disrupting transportation, and triggering large-scale rescue operations.
The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, are being described as some of the strongest seismic events to hit Venezuela in more than a century.
Twin Earthquakes Strike Within Seconds
According to seismic monitoring agencies, the first earthquake measuring 7.2 magnitude struck near the coastal town of Morón, west of Caracas, shortly after 6 p.m. local time.
Just 39 seconds later, a stronger 7.5-magnitude quake hit the same region. Experts described the rare event as a seismic “doublet,” where two major earthquakes occur in quick succession.
The shallow depth of both quakes intensified ground shaking, increasing the risk of structural damage across affected areas.
Panic Grips Caracas and Nearby Regions
Residents in Caracas rushed out of homes, offices, and commercial buildings as the ground shook violently.
Many people remained outdoors for hours amid fears of additional aftershocks. Power interruptions and communication disruptions were reported in several areas, complicating emergency response efforts.
The tremors were also felt in neighboring countries, including Colombia and parts of northern Brazil.
Airport Closed After Structural Damage
One of the most significant impacts was reported at Simón Bolívar International Airport, Venezuela’s main international gateway.
Authorities temporarily suspended airport operations after parts of the facility reportedly sustained structural damage during the earthquakes.
Schools and public institutions in several regions were also closed as safety inspections began.
State of Emergency Declared
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced a nationwide emergency response, mobilizing rescue teams, healthcare workers, and disaster management agencies.
Officials urged residents to remain calm while authorities assessed the full scale of the damage.
Emergency services have been deployed across the hardest-hit regions, including:
- La Guaira
- Miranda
- Carabobo
- Trujillo
- Falcón
Rescue Operations Continue Amid Aftershocks
Search-and-rescue teams worked through the night to locate people trapped under collapsed structures.
Authorities reported multiple injuries and confirmed that several people remained trapped in affected areas. More than 20 aftershocks were recorded following the main earthquakes, raising concerns about additional building collapses.
Residents have been advised to avoid damaged structures until engineers complete safety assessments.
