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Many casualties feared as two strong quakes rock Venezuela; state of emergency declared
Updates
Rescuers search for victims in a collapsed building following an earthquake in Caracas on June 24, 2026. AFP
Strong earthquakes struck west of Venezuela’s capital on Wednesday afternoon, damaging buildings in Caracas and prompting scientists to warn of potentially heavy casualties and widespread destruction across the South American country.
Photo: AFP
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Photo: AFP
A magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit about 160 km (100 miles) west of Caracas, followed less than a minute later by a magnitude 7.5 tremor, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Authorities did not immediately provide official estimates for deaths or injuries.
08:05am
Venezuela closes main airport over ‘serious damage’ from earthquakes: presidency
AFP
08:00am
Venezuelan president declares state of emergency after earthquakes
Venezuela’s interim leader declared a state of emergency Wednesday as two massive earthquakes and more than 20 aftershocks rattled the country, forcing the closure of its main airport.
The Maiquetia International Airport, located near Caracas, would close following “serious damage” to its infrastructure, Delcy Rodriguez said, after two tremors of 7.2 magnitude and 7.5 magnitude respectively caused buildings to crumble in the capital.
AFP
07:25am
USGS estimates death toll could top 10,000
“High casualties and extensive damage are probable and the disaster is likely widespread,” the USGS said, making an initial estimate that the death toll could range from 10,000 to 100,000.
Photo: AFP
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Photo: AFP
Authorities did not immediately provide a national toll for deaths or injuries, but local officials and witnesses reported collapsed buildings, rescues and a growing number of injured.
Many Venezuelans were at home when the quakes struck during a public holiday marking an 1821 military victory that helped secure the country’s independence from Spain.
“As soon as it started, we began hearing people screaming,” said Astrid Ramirez, a 41-year-old publicist in western Caracas. “Everyone was running down the stairs.”
