So far 32 people have died due to earthquake in Venezuela, more than 700 injured; Relief and rescue operations continue
Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll: Two powerful earthquakes that occurred one after the other in Venezuela on Wednesday evening have caused massive devastation in many states including the capital Caracas. The intensity of these earthquakes was so high that dozens of buildings were razed to the ground and an atmosphere of chaos was created on the streets.
Acting President Delsey Rodriguez has confirmed that at least 32 people have died and more than 700 have been injured in the disaster.
Two devastating aftershocks within a minute
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the first earthquake was of 7.1 magnitude with its epicenter near San Felipe. Just 39 seconds later, a second, even more powerful, 7.5 magnitude quake was felt, with its epicenter near the city of Yumare.
Experts say this is one of the most powerful earthquakes to hit Venezuela in the last 100 years. The tremors were so strong that multi-storey buildings in Caracas started swaying and clouds of dust were seen in many areas.
President imposed emergency in the country
President Rodriguez has declared a state of emergency in the country and Caracas airport has been closed due to heavy damage. He called the situation in the northern state of La Guaira a ‘real tragedy’. and ‘disaster areas’ Told.
Falcon State Governor Victor Clark said rescue workers were searching for 15 people buried under the debris.
Eyewitnesses in the capital said the scene looked like something from a ‘horror movie’ It was like, where people were running over the debris to save their lives.
Building collapsed after earthquake in Caracas, Venezuela, photo (So. Social Media)
Many countries extended a helping hand
After this disaster, US President Donald Trump expressed solidarity on social media and instructed all government agencies for immediate assistance. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced the immediate deployment of search and rescue teams, medical resources and humanitarian assistance.
Apart from this, countries like China, Argentina, Brazil and Mexico have also extended their helping hand. International organizations like World Vision have also got involved in relief work on the ground.
New disaster amid economic challenges
Venezuela already struggles with economic challenges and poverty, with approximately 8 million people in need of humanitarian assistance. In such a situation, this earthquake has deepened the country’s crisis.
Also read:- India’s “Operation Dost” NDRF team will go for relief in the severe earthquake in Venezuela.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello has appealed to citizens to remain calm and take special care of children and the elderly. Authorities have warned that more than 20 aftershocks have been recorded, so people should not go inside damaged buildings right now.
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