Venezuela rocked by twin earthquakes as death toll rises to 32

Twin powerful earthquakes measuring 7.5 and 7.2 magnitude struck Venezuela near Caracas, killing at least 32 people, injuring more than 700 and triggering nationwide emergency rescue operations.

WEBDESK – AL JAZEERA

Venezuela has been hit by two devastating earthquakes that caused widespread destruction across Caracas and nearby regions, with officials confirming at least 32 deaths and hundreds of injuries.

According to international media reports, the back-to-back quakes measuring 7.5 and 7.2 magnitude struck west of the Venezuelan capital early Wednesday, collapsing residential buildings, damaging roads and disrupting critical infrastructure.

Acting President Delcy Rodriguez declared a nationwide state of emergency and confirmed that Caracas’ Simon Bolivar International Airport had been shut down after suffering structural damage.

Speaking during a televised address, Rodriguez described the situation as “a true tragedy” and warned that casualty figures could rise further as rescue operations continue in heavily affected areas.

“The most affected state by this unprecedented seismic phenomenon is La Guaira,” Rodriguez said. “There are dozens of collapsed buildings and rescue teams are working tirelessly to save lives.”

Authorities said more than 700 injured people have been shifted to public and private hospitals for emergency treatment, while emergency workers continue searching through debris for survivors.

Experts fear the final death toll could climb significantly because several densely populated neighbourhoods experienced severe structural damage due to the shallow depth of the earthquakes.

Videos circulating on social media showed panicked residents running into streets as buildings shook violently across Caracas and surrounding cities.

Emergency shelters have been established for displaced families, while power outages and communication disruptions were reported in several areas.

The Venezuelan government has appealed for national unity as rescue and recovery efforts intensify across the country.