At least 164 people have died following two massive earthquakes that struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening. The tremors, recorded by the United States Geological Survey as magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, originated west of Caracas. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez confirmed the death toll alongside reports of over 970 injuries, identifying La Guaira as one of the hardest-hit regions.
The coastal city of Catia La Mar remains without power, leaving survivors to navigate the darkness as they search for family members beneath destroyed structures. The 7.5-magnitude event ranks as the strongest seismic activity in the nation since 1900. Operations at the international airport near Caracas are currently suspended due to significant structural damage, which is hampering incoming relief efforts.
International support is mobilizing rapidly. Rescuers from the United States, several European nations, and United Nations-certified teams are heading to the disaster zone. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that American military resources would be utilized to assist with logistics. Meanwhile, nations including China, India, Brazil, and Iran have also pledged assistance.
Local authorities, including Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, have urged citizens to evacuate damaged homes, and gas supplies have been intentionally shut off to prevent further accidents. In Caracas, a 22-story structure in the Altamira neighborhood collapsed entirely, prompting desperate rescue attempts by volunteers using makeshift gear.
