Venezuela has declared a nationwide state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes, recorded at magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, struck the country within seconds of each other on Wednesday evening, causing widespread destruction and triggering fears of a much higher death toll.
According to preliminary figures released by government authorities, at least 32 people have lost their lives and more than 700 others have been injured. The wounded are being treated through both the public and private healthcare systems.
Officials noted that the casualty figures do not yet include victims in La Guaira state, which has been officially designated a “disaster zone” following the collapse of dozens of buildings and key infrastructure. Authorities have warned that the toll could rise further as search-and-rescue operations continue in the affected areas.
Acting President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Delcy Rodríguez, provided an initial assessment of the impact of the seismic activity recorded in the states of Aragua, Carabobo and the Capital District.
“Following the strong earthquakes recorded this afternoon in the country, we have declared a State of Emergency throughout the national territory,” Rodríguez said.
She called on citizens to remain alert, stay safe and remain as calm as possible amid the ongoing emergency situation.
Authorities, security forces, medical services and civil protection teams have been deployed across the country to respond to the effects of the earthquakes, she said.
As a preventive measure, Rodríguez announced the suspension of direct gas supplies to avoid additional incidents that could be triggered by the seismic activity.
The acting president also instructed the activation of the entire public and private healthcare network to ensure treatment for those injured. She urged residents to evacuate structures that may have been damaged by the powerful tremors.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald J. Trump expressed solidarity with the people of Venezuela and offered assistance from the United States.
“The two major earthquakes that just hit the great people of Venezuela are both massive in scale and have left a devastating number of deaths. The U.S.A. stands ready, willing, and able to help! I have instructed all agencies of our government to get ready to move quickly. We will be there for our new and great friends. Early reports are not good!!!” Trump said.
Emergency response operations remain underway as authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage caused by the earthquakes.
Rescue Efforts Underway
In a subsequent statement, Rodríguez said emergency teams continue to work tirelessly amid the rubble in search of survivors following the twin earthquakes.
“We have just completed a first meeting to install the General Staff to attend to the tragedy caused by two consecutive high-magnitude earthquakes. We have been reviewing the first tasks with a central and essential objective: to save lives,” Rodríguez said.
She added that coordinated response operations are now underway under the direction of the high-level government body, with the full deployment of state resources focused on protecting affected citizens and supporting rescue efforts.