Two massive earthquakes struck Venezuela on Saturday morning, raising fears of thousands of casualties and widespread destruction. The first tremor, a 7.2 magnitude quake, hit approximately 170 kilometers from the capital, Caracas, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Less than two minutes later, a second, more powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck nearby at a depth of just 10 kilometers.
Foreshock and Mainshock
The USGS clarified that the initial 7.2 magnitude quake was a foreshock, while the subsequent 7.5 magnitude tremor was the mainshock. The shallow depth of the mainshock likely amplified its destructive force. No official casualty figures or damage assessments have been released yet, but the USGS estimated that casualties were likely high and the disaster widespread.
Panic at Simon Bolivar International Airport
Dramatic footage posted on social media captured panicked travelers fleeing Simon Bolivar International Airport, located just north of Caracas, as the back-to-back quakes struck. Wilmer Azuaje, a deputy for the state of Barinas, shared Instagram footage showing crowds running as sections of the ceiling and walls collapsed, sending debris and smoke across the terminal. The scenes underscored the terror experienced by those in the vicinity.
State of Emergency Declared
Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodriguez declared a state of emergency in response to the earthquakes. Multiple schools and airports have been shut down as authorities assess the situation and begin rescue efforts. The full extent of the damage remains unclear, but the USGS warned that the disaster could have significant humanitarian consequences.
More updates are expected as rescue teams reach affected areas. The earthquakes serve as a stark reminder of the region's seismic vulnerability.
