Caracas: Venezuela was struck by two powerful earthquakes on Wednesday, triggering panic across several parts of the country and raising fears of significant damage and casualties.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the first earthquake, measuring 7.2 in magnitude, struck approximately 100 miles west of the Venezuelan capital, Caracas. Less than a minute later, a stronger 7.5-magnitude tremor shook the same region, sending residents rushing out of homes and buildings in fear.
The earthquakes occurred during a public holiday when many Venezuelans were at home with their families. The back-to-back tremors caused scenes of chaos as people fled to open areas seeking safety. Reports indicated that several buildings suffered structural damage, while emergency teams were deployed to assess the situation and assist affected residents.
Authorities have warned that the full extent of the destruction is still being evaluated. Initial assessments suggest the possibility of substantial economic losses and casualties, although official figures were not immediately available.
Eyewitnesses described intense shaking that lasted long enough to cause cracks in walls, falling debris, and disruptions to electricity and communication services in some areas. In several neighborhoods, frightened residents remained outdoors amid concerns about aftershocks.
Government officials urged citizens to stay away from damaged structures and follow safety advisories issued by emergency management agencies. Rescue and relief operations were launched shortly after the earthquakes, with teams working to reach affected communities.
A tsunami alert was briefly issued for parts of the Caribbean region following the powerful quakes but was later withdrawn. Seismologists noted that the event ranks among the strongest earthquakes to hit Venezuela in recent years, and the overall impact will become clearer as assessment and rescue efforts continue.
The twin earthquakes have once again highlighted the vulnerability of earthquake-prone regions and the importance of disaster preparedness, especially when powerful tremors strike without warning.
