CARACAS, Venezuela, June 25 (ANI) — Two powerful earthquakes struck the Venezuelan capital region on Wednesday evening, causing building collapses and widespread damage, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The USGS estimated that the potential death toll could range between 10,000 and 100,000, warning that the disaster could result in high casualties and extensive destruction.
The first earthquake, measuring magnitude 7.2, struck near San Felipe, approximately 284 kilometers (176 miles) west of Caracas, at 10:04 p.m. GMT.
It was followed shortly afterward by a magnitude 7.5 earthquake near Yumare, located about 293 kilometers (182 miles) west of the capital.
“High casualties and extensive damage are probable, and the disaster is likely widespread,” the USGS said.
Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced that she would address the nation regarding the situation following the earthquakes.
“Attention: Shortly I will address Venezuelans to report on the situation following the strong earthquake that has affected our country,” Rodríguez said in a post on X.
According to India’s National Center for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 15 kilometers.
In a post on X, the NCS reported a magnitude 6.8 earthquake that occurred at 3:34:32 a.m. IST, with its epicenter located at latitude 10.451 degrees north and longitude 68.352 degrees west in Venezuela.
The U.S. Embassy in Caracas said it was closely monitoring developments following the earthquake and issued safety guidance for American citizens in Venezuela.
“U.S. Embassy Caracas is closely monitoring the aftermath of a magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Venezuela. American citizens in Venezuela should monitor official updates. Avoid damaged areas and do not enter damaged buildings. Monitor local media for updates and seek secure shelter,” the embassy said.
U.S. Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar expressed support for those affected by the disaster and offered prayers for victims and rescue workers.
“Today my prayer is with the Venezuelan people. May God embrace the families affected by the earthquake, give strength to those facing pain, and protect every rescuer who today fights to save lives,” Salazar said.
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele also expressed solidarity with the people of Venezuela.
“Our hearts are with the people of Venezuela during these difficult times. We send them all our solidarity and our prayers. Strength Venezuela,” Bukele said.
Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo González said the two consecutive earthquakes caused significant damage across the country.
“Two consecutive earthquakes have caused significant damage in Venezuela. Collapsed structures. Panic in the streets. Two hours later, we still don’t know if there are victims or fatalities,” González said in a post on X.
Nobel laureate María Corina Machado also expressed support for Venezuelans affected by the disaster.
“My heart, my infinite embrace, and my prayers are with every Venezuelan home in these hours of anguish. May strength, serenity, and solidarity prevail among us in the face of this difficult moment. May God protect every Venezuelan, our families, and our homes,” Machado said. (ANI)
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