Twin Powerful Earthquakes Rock Venezuela, Trigger State of Emergency

Venezuela has declared a state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude struck the country on Wednesday evening, causing widespread destruction, damaging critical infrastructure, and forcing thousands of residents into the streets.

The twin earthquakes, which occurred within seconds of each other, were centered near the city of Morón, west of the capital, Caracas. The tremors were felt across much of the country and in neighboring nations, with reports indicating that buildings were evacuated as far away as Brazil’s Amazon region, more than 1,700 kilometers from the Venezuelan capital.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez addressed the nation shortly after the disaster, confirming that several states suffered significant damage. While authorities had not released a comprehensive assessment of casualties or property losses, Rodríguez announced that the country’s main international gateway, Simón Bolívar International Airport, would remain closed after sustaining serious structural damage. Schools have also been ordered shut for several days as emergency assessments continue.

“We urge our population to remain calm. We urge unity,” Rodríguez said during a televised address. Emergency medical personnel and rescue teams have been mobilized nationwide to assist victims and search for people trapped beneath collapsed structures.

Witnesses described scenes of panic across Caracas and other cities as buildings shook violently. Several structures reportedly collapsed, while transportation services, including parts of the capital’s metro system, were suspended amid safety concerns. Emergency crews continued rescue operations through the night as aftershocks rattled affected areas.

Officials in the coastal state of Falcón reported injuries and missing persons, while authorities warned that the full extent of the damage may not be known for several days. International aid offers have already begun arriving from multiple countries as Venezuela grapples with one of its most significant seismic events in recent history.

The earthquakes also briefly prompted tsunami concerns in parts of the Caribbean, though warnings were later lifted after further assessment by monitoring agencies.

As rescue efforts continue, authorities have urged residents to remain alert for aftershocks and to follow emergency safety instructions issued by local officials.