Venezuela Earthquakes: 32 Dead, 700 Injured

Northern Venezuela was devastated by two powerful earthquakes, a 7.2 foreshock and a 7.5 mainshock, causing widespread destruction and prompting a state of emergency. These tremors, the strongest in over a century, have tragically claimed at least 32 lives and injured 700, with rescue efforts intensifying amid fears of a significantly higher death toll.

Two powerful earthquakes, a 7.2 magnitude foreshock and a 7.5 magnitude mainshock, struck northern Venezuela, causing significant damage and casualties. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the first quake struck about 160km west of Caracas, followed by the 7.5 magnitude tremor less than a minute later.
Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, reported at least 32 fatalities and 700 injuries, with the toll expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.
Many buildings in the capital city of Caracas were reduced to rubble, and widespread damage was reported across several states.
Acting President Rodríguez declared a state of emergency and noted that the Simón Bolívar International Airport in Caracas was closed due to damage.
As reported by The Guardian, rescuers from other countries were arriving in Venezuela, and Donald Trump pledged support, including aid and personnel.
The Associated Press highlighted that the earthquakes were among the strongest to strike Venezuela in over a century, with eyewitnesses describing terror as buildings swayed and people fled into the streets.
Reuters noted that the USGS initially warned of "high casualties and extensive damage" and that the disaster was likely widespread, with an early death toll estimate ranging from 10,000 to 100,000.