Twin powerful earthquakes rock Venezuela, state of emergency declared as rescue efforts intensify

Venezuela has declared a state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude struck the country within seconds of each other, causing widespread damage, collapsing buildings in the capital Caracas and forcing the closure of the country’s main international airport.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced the emergency measures following the earthquakes and nearly two dozen aftershocks that rattled several regions of the country. While expressing condolences to affected families, authorities did not immediately release an official death toll or injury count.

Buildings Collapse as Rescue Operations Continue

The twin earthquakes struck western areas near Morón before the tremors spread across much of Venezuela, including Caracas. Several multi-storey buildings reportedly collapsed in the capital, particularly in the Altamira district, prompting large-scale search and rescue operations. Emergency teams and volunteers have been deployed to search for survivors trapped beneath the rubble.

Witnesses reported scenes of panic as residents rushed into the streets after the ground began shaking. The earthquakes were felt across Venezuela and in neighboring countries, including Colombia.

Airport Closed, Services Suspended

Authorities confirmed that Simón Bolívar International Airport near Caracas sustained significant damage and has been temporarily closed. Officials also suspended classes and halted several public transportation services while assessments of infrastructure damage continue.

Government officials said damage was reported in multiple states, affecting transportation networks, public utilities and buildings. Rescue crews remain on high alert as aftershocks continue to impact affected regions.

USGS Warns of Extensive Damage

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) warned that the earthquakes could result in high casualties and extensive damage due to their magnitude and shallow depth. The agency noted that the seismic event involved a complex rupture process and warned that additional strong aftershocks remain possible.

According to the USGS, the larger earthquake was caused by shallow strike-slip faulting near the boundary between the Caribbean and South American tectonic plates. Venezuela lies within a seismically active zone where movement between these plates can generate major earthquakes.

Authorities continue to assess the full scale of the disaster as emergency services search for survivors and evaluate damage across the country.