Caracas, June 25: At least 32 people have been confirmed dead and more than 700 others injured after two powerful, consecutive earthquakes struck northwest Venezuela. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez declared a national state of emergency, warning that the casualty figures are expected to rise significantly as emergency crews gain access to heavily damaged zones. The twin shocks forced the immediate closure of all educational facilities and government institutions across the country, alongside the suspension of operations at Simón Bolívar International Airport in Caracas due to extensive infrastructure damage.
According to structural assessments, emergency personnel are racing against time to locate thousands of citizens suspected to be trapped beneath the ruins of high-rise complexes and collapsed buildings in the capital. Local public and private medical facilities have been inundated, receiving hundreds of individuals requiring urgent treatment.
“Dozens of buildings have collapsed and we are engaged in the arduous task of rescuing the lives that God allows us to save,” Interim President Delcy Rodríguez stated during an official national briefing. “The state of La Guaira is facing a true tragedy and has become a disaster zone. We urge our population to remain calm. We urge unity.”
Seismological data from the US Geological Survey (USGS) indicated that the disaster manifested as a rapid seismic doublet. The initial tremor, registering a magnitude of 7.2 on the Richter scale, originated west of Morón, approximately 168 kilometers west of Caracas. It was followed mere moments later by a second, even more severe 7.5 magnitude earthquake centered in the exact same region, making it one of the most violent seismic events recorded in the nation in over a century.
International aid has mobilized swiftly, with Cuba and Bolivia formally deploying immediate rescue and relief contingents to assist local civil protection forces. Philanthropic organizations have also stepped in, with Spanish-American chef José Andrés committing substantial emergency financial support through his organization’s dedicated fund.
“Deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the severe earthquakes in Venezuela,” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared in an official statement of solidarity. “On behalf of the people of India, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Venezuela, especially to the families who have lost their loved ones. We pray for the speedy recovery of those injured and stand in solidarity with all those affected during this difficult time. India stands ready to extend all possible assistance.”
