Venezuela’s northern coast has been hit by two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, striking just minutes apart and causing widespread destruction across multiple regions.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the epicenter was located approximately 17 miles (28 kilometers) west of Morón, along the Caribbean coast, and about 104 miles from the capital, Caracas. Authorities describe the event as one of the most significant seismic disasters in the country in more than a century.
Early official reports from Venezuelan authorities indicate at least 32 deaths and around 700 injuries, though officials warn that the numbers are expected to rise as rescue operations continue and more remote areas are reached.
Severe structural damage has been reported in several cities, including collapsed buildings and widespread infrastructure failure. Simón Bolívar International Airport near Caracas has been closed due to significant damage, with reports of debris, collapsed ceilings, and disrupted operations.
Emergency services are continuing search-and-rescue operations in areas where people are believed to be trapped. The government has declared affected zones disaster areas and suspended non-essential public activity, including school operations.
International assistance is being mobilized, with rescue teams from several countries expected to arrive, including the United States, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and El Salvador. Temporary shelters and emergency housing have been established for displaced residents.
Officials say priority efforts remain focused on saving lives and reaching survivors in collapsed structures, while damage assessments continue across the region.
Authorities and international agencies caution that casualty estimates remain uncertain as assessments are still ongoing.
