World ( The cow news digital ) A series of powerful earthquakes has struck Venezuela, causing widespread destruction and raising fears of heavy casualties across the country. The twin tremors, measured at magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, hit the capital Caracas and surrounding regions within seconds of each other, triggering panic and significant structural damage.
According to initial reports, the earthquakes struck at approximately 6:04 pm local time in an area west of Caracas. The impact was felt across much of Venezuela, with tremors extending into neighboring Colombia, including the capital Bogotá. Residents rushed out of homes and buildings as strong shaking continued, with many describing scenes of chaos and collapse.
Authorities confirmed that several buildings have collapsed, while emergency services are actively engaged in search and rescue operations. Officials have warned that people may still be trapped under debris as rescue teams continue to reach affected areas. The interior ministry has urged citizens to remain alert and avoid entering damaged structures until further notice.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has indicated that the earthquakes could result in significant human and material losses. Early projections suggest a high probability of extensive casualties, with estimates warning that fatalities could potentially exceed thousands depending on the scale of structural damage and rescue response.
Venezuela’s main international gateway, the Maiquetía International Airport, has been shut down after sustaining serious damage. Videos circulating on social media show terrified passengers and airport staff evacuating terminals as ceilings collapsed and dust filled the air. Authorities are currently assessing structural integrity and have suspended all flight operations until safety checks are completed.
The government has declared an emergency in the affected regions and mobilized hospitals, rescue agencies, and security forces. Power outages and communication disruptions have also been reported in several areas, further complicating relief efforts.
The earthquakes occurred during a national holiday period, when many residents were at home, raising concerns that the number of casualties could increase as more information becomes available. Officials have warned that the full extent of the destruction may take time to assess due to damaged infrastructure and limited communication in some areas.
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International response has begun to emerge, with US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau expressing solidarity with the people of Venezuela. In a statement on social media, he said the United States is in contact with local authorities and is prepared to support humanitarian assistance efforts as needed.
Rescue operations remain ongoing as authorities race against time to locate survivors and provide urgent aid in one of the most severe natural disasters to hit the region in recent years.
