Twin Earthquakes Rock Venezuela, Triggering Widespread Panic
Venezuela has been struck by two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, causing widespread devastation across several regions, including the capital city of Caracas. The twin quakes hit within seconds of each other, sending terrified residents rushing into the streets as buildings shook violently and several structures collapsed.
Authorities have declared a nationwide state of emergency while rescue teams continue searching for survivors trapped beneath the rubble.
Survivors Describe Moments of Terror
Residents who lived through the disaster recalled terrifying scenes as the earthquakes struck without warning.
Jesus Alejandro Pina, an engineer who was on the top floor of a seven-story building in Caracas, described the shaking as one of the most frightening experiences of his life.
According to Pina, glass shattered, furniture crashed to the floor, and even the building’s structural columns and beams creaked under the intense pressure. As an engineer, he feared the prolonged shaking could eventually cause the building to collapse.
When the tremors finally stopped, thousands of frightened people poured onto the streets seeking safety.
‘We Hugged Each Other and Ran’
Another survivor, 25-year-old Luis Alejandro Ruiz Garcia, said a Google earthquake alert appeared on his phone just moments before his apartment began shaking violently.
He said he, his mother, and his sister immediately embraced each other before rushing downstairs and escaping the building.
Outside, they witnessed orange dust filling the sky after a nearby residential building collapsed just a few blocks away.
The family briefly returned to collect essential documents and clothing before leaving again as aftershocks remained a major concern.
Rescue Teams Race Against Time
Emergency responders worked throughout the night to rescue people trapped beneath collapsed buildings.
Firefighters, paramedics, and volunteers searched damaged neighborhoods as desperate relatives waited nearby hoping for news of missing family members.
Several roads remain blocked by debris, while communication services have been disrupted across affected regions, making it difficult for families to contact loved ones.
State of Emergency Declared
The Venezuelan government has declared a state of emergency following the disaster.
Authorities have:
- Suspended school classes.
- Closed the country’s main airport.
- Mobilized healthcare workers.
- Deployed emergency rescue teams across affected areas.
Officials have also warned residents to remain alert as strong aftershocks are expected.
Casualties Expected to Rise
According to Venezuelan authorities, at least 32 deaths have been confirmed, while more than 700 people have been injured.
However, officials believe the actual toll could increase significantly as rescue operations continue and many damaged buildings have yet to be fully searched.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has estimated a 44% probability that fatalities could exceed 10,000, while there is a 33% probability that the death toll could surpass 100,000 if the worst-case damage assessment materializes.
Communication Disruptions Slow Rescue Efforts
Telecommunication outages have affected several parts of the country, leaving thousands of families unable to contact relatives.
Emergency officials say restoring communication networks remains a priority, as reliable connectivity is essential for coordinating rescue operations and delivering humanitarian assistance.
As rescue workers continue searching through collapsed buildings, authorities warn that the full scale of the disaster is still unfolding.
