Venezuela has been struck by two powerful earthquakes that killed at least 32 people and injured around 700 others, as buildings collapsed across the capital Caracas and surrounding areas, interim President Delcy Rodriguez said.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the first earthquake measured magnitude 7.2 and struck about 160 kilometres west of Caracas, followed less than a minute later by a stronger magnitude 7.5 tremor.
The USGS warned through predictive modelling that the death toll could rise significantly, with estimates potentially reaching into the thousands and a substantial possibility of exceeding 10,000 fatalities.
Rodriguez said early casualty figures do not yet include reports from La Guaira state, which lies near the capital and is home to the city’s main airport and is believed to be among the worst affected areas.
She described the situation as a “true tragedy” and confirmed that dozens of buildings had collapsed, with rescue operations ongoing in a desperate effort to save survivors trapped under rubble.
Emergency teams, including international assistance, are expected to arrive in the coming hours as Venezuela intensifies search-and-rescue efforts across affected regions.
The US government has also indicated readiness to assist, with President Donald Trump stating that Washington stands prepared to support relief operations.
Local officials reported multiple building collapses in Caracas districts, including Baruta and Chacao, where fatalities and significant structural damage have been confirmed.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said emergency teams are working with all available resources, while footage from the capital showed rescue workers digging through debris as residents searched for missing loved ones.
Residents described scenes of panic as the tremors struck during a public holiday, with many rushing into the streets as buildings shook violently and alarms sounded.
Authorities also confirmed that a tsunami warning was issued but later lifted once the threat had passed.
Hospitals in Caracas have activated emergency measures, with staff reinforcing night shifts to manage the influx of injured patients.
Venezuela’s main airport near Maiquetia has been closed due to damage, while authorities continue assessing the full extent of destruction across infrastructure and energy facilities.
The country remains on high alert as rescue operations continue, with fears that the death toll could rise further in the coming days.
