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 the latest official figures released on the evening of June 25 (7:00 p.m. local time), 235 people have been killed and 4,300 injured, while 100 aftershocks had been recorded since the two major earthquakes struck. The injured are being treated through both the public and private healthcare systems.
La Guaira state has been officially designated a “disaster zone” following the collapse of dozens of buildings and key infrastructure. Authorities warned that the casualty toll could continue to rise as emergency teams press ahead with search-and-rescue operations in the affected areas and assess the full extent of the damage.
Earlier, 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.
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.
Note: This is a developing story. Casualty and damage figures are based on the latest official information available at the time of publication and may change as rescue, recovery and assessment operations continue. The story will be updated as more details become available from authorities.
Read Update: Death Toll Rises to 589 After Devastating Twin Earthquakes in Venezuela