Key points
- Venezuela declares state of emergency following two powerful earthquakes
- Quakes measured at magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 by USGS
- Authorities suspend classes, rail services and close Caracas airport
- Buildings reported collapsed in parts of the country
- Rescue teams deployed amid fears of significant casualties
Main story
The Venezuelan government has declared a state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes struck parts of the country, causing widespread damage and disrupting transportation services.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced the measure in a televised address late Wednesday, describing the situation as an incident with serious consequences. Rodríguez said authorities were prioritising rescue operations and did not immediately provide details on casualties or the full extent of the damage.According to the government, school classes were suspended, rail services halted and the international airport in Caracas closed due to damage caused by the earthquakes.
The United States Geological Survey measured the earthquakes at magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, making them among the strongest seismic events recorded globally this year. The second and stronger earthquake struck at a shallow depth of about 10 kilometres, increasing concerns about extensive damage and loss of life. Television footage showed collapsed buildings in Caracas, while videos circulating on social media captured damage at the capital’s airport and scenes of people rushing to safety.
Authorities said the earthquakes were felt across at least seven states and warned residents to remain alert for possible aftershocks. As a precautionary measure, officials ordered the shutdown of gas supplies to reduce the risk of explosions.
The epicentre of the first earthquake, which occurred at 6:04 p.m. local time, was located 24 kilometres east of San Felipe in north-western Venezuela at a depth of 21.9 kilometres, according to USGS data. The second earthquake struck a few kilometres further north.
USGS modelling indicated a very high likelihood of significant casualties because of the magnitude of the earthquakes and their proximity to populated areas.
The issues
- Emergency response to major earthquakes
- Risk of casualties and infrastructure damage
- Transport and airport disruptions
- Potential aftershocks and secondary hazards
- Disaster preparedness and public safety
What’s Being Said
“Authorities suspended school classes, halted rail services, and closed the international airport in the capital Caracas due to damage.” — Delcy Rodríguez, announcing emergency measures.
“The USGS measured the two earthquakes at magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, putting them among the strongest seismic events globally so far this year.” — According to USGS data cited in the report.
“We are dealing with an extremely alarming situation.” — Diosdado Cabello, commenting on the disaster.
“The quake was felt in at least seven states,” he said, warning that aftershocks were likely and could cause further structural failures in already damaged buildings. — Cabello, on the continuing threat from aftershocks.
Bottom line
Venezuela has declared a state of emergency after twin earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck the country, damaging infrastructure, disrupting transport services and prompting large-scale rescue efforts amid fears of significant casualties.
