Venezuela’s health ministry confirmed a death toll of at least 235 following two powerful earthquakes that struck the country. The quakes, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, hit just 40 seconds apart, causing widespread devastation. Rescuers are working urgently to save hundreds believed to be trapped under collapsed buildings.
The earthquakes, the strongest in Venezuela in over a century, struck the central coast and Caracas, causing building collapses and infrastructure damage. With many still trapped, authorities fear the death toll may climb higher. The shallow quakes, occurring at a depth of 10 km, have led to ongoing aftershocks, increasing the risk of further structural failures.
Venezuela’s National Assembly President, Jorge Rodriguez, stated that around 200 people are still buried under debris. The country, unaccustomed to major earthquakes, faces challenges due to limited disaster preparedness. The government has initiated rescue and reconstruction efforts, including mobilizing resources and setting up financial aid for affected individuals and businesses.
Experts highlight the lack of recent seismic activity in Venezuela, coupled with aging infrastructure, as factors exacerbating the earthquake’s impact. International support is being coordinated, with several countries offering assistance in the aftermath of the disaster.
