Venezuela’s Most Powerful Earthquake in Over a Century: Key Updates
What we know about Venezuela s biggest – Two significant earthquakes struck Venezuela’s northern coastline on Wednesday, shaking the region within a minute of each other. The quakes, with magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, mark the strongest seismic events in the country in more than a century, according to officials. The disaster has already claimed over 32 lives and injured at least 700 people, with the death toll likely to increase as assessments continue.
Seismic Activity and Immediate Response
The first tremor, measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale, occurred near San Felipe, the capital of Yaracuy state, shortly after 6:04 p.m. ET. Just 40 seconds later, a more severe 7.5 magnitude quake rattled Yumare, a town approximately 23 kilometers southeast of San Felipe. Both events were felt across multiple states and even in neighboring Colombia, hundreds of kilometers away from the epicenter.
“The scene was like a horror movie,” reported a Caracas resident who fled a damaged structure during the chaos.
Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodriguez, confirmed the destruction, stating that La Guaira—the coastal state most affected—has been designated a disaster zone. She emphasized ongoing efforts to rescue survivors, describing the situation as “a true tragedy” and pledging to do “all that God allows” to save lives.
Infrastructure Damage and Communication Challenges
Videos shared by CNN, geolocated from various parts of the country, reveal widespread structural collapse and panic among residents. In Macuto, a major waterfront hotel in La Guaira has been reduced to rubble, while Catia La Mar saw multiple high-rises severely damaged. The quakes also disrupted internet and power networks, as reported by NetBlocks, leaving many areas without essential services.
Rodriguez announced the declaration of a state of emergency, establishing a task force to coordinate relief efforts. Simon Bolivar Airport near Caracas has been temporarily closed due to structural damage, and schools are set to remain closed for a week. Non-essential transportation and public activities have also been suspended.
Global Aid and Political Context
Amid the crisis, international support is being mobilized. Rodriguez highlighted that the US is expected to send rescue teams early Thursday, following President Donald Trump’s endorsement. Additional assistance is coming from the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Mexico, and Qatar. China, Brazil, and several Caribbean nations have also pledged humanitarian aid.
Venezuela’s ongoing political and economic turmoil adds to the challenges. The country remains under the leadership of an interim government after President Nicolás Maduro was captured by US forces earlier this year, with the economy struggling due to prolonged hyperinflation. The quakes occurred during a public holiday, potentially amplifying the impact on civilians who were at home or in gatherings.
