Venezuela hit by two major quakes in 39 seconds

Venezuela was struck by two devastating earthquakes in quick succession, causing buildings to collapse and triggering a nationwide emergency response. The US Geological Survey reported that the two tremors, measuring 7.5 and 7.2, hit Yaracuy state just 39 seconds apart. Severe damage was reported in several regions, including the capital Caracas, as rescue teams searched through collapsed buildings.

Two powerful quakes struck within seconds

According to USGS data, the first earthquake was recorded southeast of Yumare in Yaracuy state with a magnitude of 7.5.

The second tremor, measuring 7.2, struck northeast of San Felipe in the same state.

The Yumare-centered quake was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers, while the San Felipe quake occurred at a depth of 21.9 kilometers.

Death toll may rise

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez said at least 32 people had been killed and around 700 others injured.

She warned that the death toll could rise as rescue teams continue to search collapsed buildings and reach devastated areas. La Guaira was reported to be among the hardest-hit states.

Buildings collapsed in Caracas

The earthquakes were strongly felt in Caracas as well as Miranda, La Guaira, Aragua, Carabobo, Falcon and other regions.

Rodríguez said buildings had collapsed in several districts of Caracas, with similar destruction reported in other states.

In Baruta, a municipality in Caracas, local officials said 3 people were killed after two buildings collapsed.

Airport closed after damage

Simón Bolívar International Airport was closed until further notice after the earthquakes. Reports said the airport, located near Caracas, suffered heavy infrastructure damage.

Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello also said the ceiling of Maiquetía International Airport had collapsed and all flights had been canceled.

Schools closed, activities suspended

Following the state of emergency declaration, schools were closed and non-essential activities were suspended.

Authorities ordered urgent inspections of damaged buildings.

Rodríguez said the priority was saving lives, adding that reconstruction would be addressed later.

Residents warned not to return home

Officials warned residents to stay away from damaged buildings due to the risk of aftershocks. Cabello said the earthquakes were strongly felt in Trujillo, Yaracuy, Carabobo, Aragua, Miranda, Caracas and La Guaira. In some areas, internet infrastructure reportedly collapsed, making it difficult to determine the full extent of casualties and damage.

Trump offers US assistance

US President Donald Trump said Washington was ready to help Venezuela after the earthquakes.

Trump described the first reports as worrying and said the United States was “ready, willing and able” to provide assistance.

Rodríguez also thanked governments that sent messages of solidarity, including the United States, Panama, Qatar, Ecuador, Colombia, the United Kingdom, Brazil and Mexico, as well as the United Nations and multilateral financial institutions.