A series of powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, causing widespread destruction across the country, with fears that the final death toll could rise significantly.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the first earthquake measured 7.1 in magnitude and was followed within minutes by a second, more powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake. The earthquakes struck at around 6:00 p.m. local time, shaking buildings across the affected areas.
Reports said that dozens of buildings collapsed in several cities, including the Venezuelan capital, Caracas. Authorities fear that a large number of people remain trapped beneath the rubble.
Venezuela’s Acting President, Delcy Rodríguez, described the earthquakes as a national tragedy, stating that numerous buildings had been destroyed. She also confirmed that Caracas’ central Maiquetía Airport had sustained severe damage. According to official figures, 167 people have been confirmed dead, while more than 970 others have been injured.
Following the declaration of a state of emergency, the government launched large-scale rescue and relief operations across the affected regions.
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The USGS has warned that the earthquakes could ultimately result in between 10,000 and 100,000 fatalities.
Meanwhile, a separate 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck northern California in the United States, prompting authorities to issue alerts to one million residents.
U.S. President Donald Trump said the initial reports from Venezuela were not encouraging and indicated that a large number of people had died. He added that U.S. agencies had been instructed to provide immediate assistance.
Separately, Iran expressed deep sorrow over the deadly earthquakes and offered to assist Venezuela with relief efforts. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Iran was prepared to provide all necessary assistance for humanitarian and rescue operations, adding that the country stands with the government and people of Venezuela during this difficult time.
