Powerful twin earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude struck off Venezuela's coast on Wednesday evening, causing widespread damage, collapsing buildings,
and triggering panic across the region. At least 32 people have been confirmed killed and over 700 injured. As rescue efforts began, a preliminary assessment by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) warned there is a significant possibility of a catastrophic death toll, with estimates ranging from 10,000 to over 100,000 fatalities. In a brief address to the nation late Wednesday, acting President Delcy Rodriguez said the earthquakes caused damages in several states, but she did not give exact figures of homes and buildings damaged, injures or fatalities. The earthquakes damaged the country's main airport, Simon Bolivar International Airport, severely enough to lead to its closure, she said, adding that classes are being cancelled for several days. "We urge our population to remain calm," Rodriguez said. "We urge unity." She also asked all health care professionals in the country to report to hospitals to assist anyone who was injured. Rodriguez says at least 20 aftershocks were recorded in Venezuela. A state of emergency has been declared in the nation.
Twin earthquakes rock Venezuela
The US Geological Survey initially said the first earthquake had a magnitude of 7.1, later revising that to 7.2, and its epicentre was west of the community of Moron, located along the country's Caribbean coast, about 168 kilometres (104 miles) west of Caracas. The quake had a depth of 22 kilometres.
The USGS reported an even larger 7.5-magnitude earthquake just a minute later. The second quake had a depth of 10 kilometers and its epicentre was 16 kilometres (10 miles) southwest of Moron. Thereafter, at least 20 aftershocks were recorded.
The quakes, among the strongest to strike Venezuela in more than a century, struck shortly after 6 pm. People evacuated swaying buildings in the capital Caracas, many visibly shocked as they saw entire walls that had collapsed, making furniture visible from the street. Dust columns could also be seen in two neighbourhoods of the capital, where restaurants and other businesses are typically busy.
The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami alert for Virgin Islands. Authorities in the Dominican Republic also issued one for the island. Another alert for Puerto Rico was quickly lifted.
(With AP inputs)
