Powerful Quakes Rock Venezuela, Heavy Toll Feared

Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, triggering widespread damage and raising fears of massive casualties.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), a 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck on Wednesday afternoon about 160 kilometres west of Caracas, the country’s capital. Within a minute, a second earthquake measuring 7.5 magnitude hit the same region.

The twin quakes caused severe shaking across multiple areas, with several buildings reported to have collapsed.

USGS warned of extensive damage and a high risk of casualties, estimating that the death toll could range from 10,000 to 100,000 if the worst-case scenario unfolds.

Authorities have not yet released an official nationwide casualty figure. However, local officials and eyewitnesses reported growing numbers of injuries and deaths as rescue operations continue.

Videos circulating online showed emergency responders working through the night to search for survivors trapped under collapsed buildings, while anxious relatives waited outside for news of loved ones.

Gustavo Duque, mayor of Chacao municipality in eastern Caracas, told local media that at least two buildings had collapsed. He confirmed that 16 people were injured and fatalities had also been reported, though he did not provide an exact death toll.

The earthquakes struck on a public holiday afternoon, when many residents were inside their homes.

Astrid Ramirez, a 41-year-old public relations officer living in western Caracas, described the terrifying moment.

“As soon as it started, we heard people screaming everywhere. Everyone rushed down the stairs trying to escape,” she said.

Hospitals across Venezuela are preparing for a possible surge in casualties. At Hospital de Clínicas in Caracas, medical authorities have reportedly doubled night-shift staffing to handle emergency patients.

Authorities have also suspended classes and cancelled local events in some affected areas until Monday as emergency response efforts continue.