A powerful magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck Venezuela on Wednesday afternoon, causing buildings to collapse and trapping people in rubble. The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported that a magnitude 7.2 quake hit about 160km west of Caracas, followed less than a minute later by a 7.5 tremor.
State of Emergency Declared
Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, declared a state of emergency after the earthquakes and nearly two dozen aftershocks. The Maiquetia airport near Caracas was closed due to damage. Video footage showed the moment the earthquake rocked the airport, with people shouting and objects shaking.
Impact and Response
The earthquakes brought down buildings and prompted scientists to warn of heavy casualties and widespread destruction. Rescue efforts are underway as authorities assess the full extent of the damage. The USGS noted that the quakes were felt across a wide area, including the capital.
