Thousands Feared Dead After Powerful Earthquakes Devastate Venezuela
Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela near Caracas, causing widespread destruction and leaving thousands feared dead. The tremors, measuring magnitude 7.2 and 7.5, hit within a minute of each other and triggered severe aftershocks, flattening buildings and trapping residents under debris. Emergency teams rushed to rescue survivors as collapsed structures and damaged infrastructure slowed response efforts.
At least 32 deaths and hundreds of injuries have been confirmed so far, though officials warn the toll could rise dramatically. International seismic models estimate that fatalities may reach into the thousands, with some projections suggesting over 10,000 could be affected. Rescue operations are ongoing across heavily impacted regions, including La Guaira state near the capital.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as residents fled shaking buildings and filled streets in panic. Hospitals are overwhelmed with the injured, while several countries and organizations have pledged assistance. Authorities continue to search for survivors amid ongoing aftershocks, as concerns grow over damage to critical infrastructure and communication systems.
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