Venezuela declares State of Emergency following two powerful earthquakes
Caracas, June 25
Venezuela's Acting President Delcy Rodriguez has announced a State of Emergency after two powerful earthquakes struck the South American nation, causing widespread damage.
"Following the strong earthquakes recorded this afternoon in the country, we have declared a State of Emergency throughout the national territory. We call on all citizens to remain alert, safe, and as calm as possible," Rodriguez said in a post on X.
She also announced that the Maiquetia airport has been closed due to earthquake damage. She assured that the security bodies, medical services, and civil protection teams are deployed across the country to carry out rescue and relief operations.
Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela in quick succession, both causing strong tremors in the capital of Caracas.
The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported a magnitude 7.1 quake at 2204 GMT on Wednesday evening, followed just one minute later by an even stronger magnitude 7.5 tremor. Both struck near the coastal town of Moron, about 160 km west of Caracas.
The quakes were shallow with a depth of 10 km, which could intensify their destructive impact.
Venezuela's Interior, Justice and Peace Minister Diosdado Cabello said the strong earthquakes have caused damage in cities across the country.
Several buildings collapsed in the eastern part of the Caracas metropolitan area, Cabello said, giving no immediate details on casualties or injuries.
Cabello urged Venezuelans to avoid staying inside buildings in the coming hours due to the risk of strong aftershocks that could cause further collapses, while calling on the public to remain calm and united as the country deals with the quake's aftermath.
Meanwhile, Colombian media reported that the quake was also felt strongly in several cities in neighbouring Colombia.
The USGS said the two quakes are likely to result in high casualties and extensive damage.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Scary stuff! Two earthquakes in one minute is unbelievable. Venezuela is already struggling economically, and now this will set them back further. I hope India is ready to send disaster relief teams or supplies. Also, prayers for those affected – may the aftershocks be mild. ☮️
As someone from the US, I'm concerned but also aware of the geopolitical tensions. However, natural disasters don't discriminate. I hope relief efforts are efficient and that the international community steps up without politics getting in the way. Stay strong, Venezuela.
This is tragic. India has experience with earthquakes (like Bhuj 2001) and should share its disaster management expertise. Also, why is the acting president declaring state of emergency? This seems like a political move too. Nonetheless, my heart goes out to the Venezuelan people. 🇮🇳🤝
I remember the Nepal earthquake in 2015 – such disasters need quick global response. Venezuela's infrastructure was already fragile. I hope aid reaches quickly and that the Indian community there is safe. Fingers crossed for minimal casualties. 🤞
Honestly, the world should come together for this. But it's sad that Venezuela's government may not use aid transparently. Still, people are suffering – and India, with its strong humanitarian record, should help. Let's focus on relief, not politics, for now. 🙏
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