Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency after twin earthquakes of magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck the country on Wednesday, killing at least 164 people and injuring 971. Experts warned the death toll was likely to rise as rescue efforts continued.
Quake Details and Impact
The US Geological Survey reported a magnitude 7.5 “mainshock” and a 7.2 “foreshock” 39 seconds earlier, among the largest earthquakes in Venezuela’s history. The quakes caused dozens of buildings to collapse, with the worst damage in and around the capital, Caracas. Social media videos showed panicked passengers running through Simón Bolívar airport to escape falling debris.
Rodríguez confirmed the airport had been closed after sustaining “severe damage” and that metro and rail services were suspended. A Guardian reporter saw at least three collapsed buildings in Altamira, an affluent district housing many foreign embassies.
Response and Warnings
The US Geological Survey stated, “High casualties and extensive damage are probable and the disaster is likely widespread.” The situation remains developing, with officials urging caution as aftershocks may occur.
