Daijiworld Media Network - Caracas
Caracas, Jun 25: Venezuela was struck by two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale on Wednesday evening, causing extensive damage, disrupting services and forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes in panic.
The twin tremors were felt across several parts of the country and even reached neighbouring nations, with reports of evacuations in parts of Brazil's Amazon region nearly 1,700 kilometres away. Buildings swayed violently, power outages were reported in several areas, and communication networks were disrupted in parts of the capital, Caracas.
Addressing the nation late Wednesday, acting President Delcy Rodriguez confirmed that the earthquakes had caused significant damage in multiple states. However, authorities were yet to release official figures regarding casualties, injuries or the extent of property destruction.
Rodriguez said the country's main gateway, Simon Bolivar International Airport, sustained severe damage and has been temporarily closed. Educational institutions have also been ordered to remain shut for several days as a precautionary measure.
"We urge our population to remain calm and united during this difficult time," Rodriguez said, while calling on healthcare professionals across the country to report to hospitals and assist in emergency response efforts.
Residents described scenes of fear and confusion as buildings shook violently. Many people remained outdoors for hours after the quakes, fearing aftershocks. Streets in several areas were blocked by debris, collapsed structures and fallen electricity poles.
"It started off gently and then gradually became stronger. In the end, everyone had to leave their homes and gather outside," said Caracas resident Hector Ricci.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said the Altamira neighbourhood in Caracas was among the worst-hit areas, with reports of collapsed homes and buildings. Emergency services and rescue teams were deployed to affected regions.
"We are activating all aid and rescue protocols to assist those most in need," Cabello said, urging motorists to clear roads for ambulances and emergency vehicles.
Residents recounted the intensity of the tremors. "The building shook from side to side. Everything inside the apartment fell. Thankfully, we managed to get out safely," said Roberto Gamas, a resident of Caracas.
Messages of support poured in from around the world following the disaster. Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, currently in exile, expressed solidarity with those affected and urged citizens to remain strong.
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele and US Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar also extended their support and prayers to the Venezuelan people.
The earthquakes were also felt in Colombia's Caribbean and northeastern regions, though no injuries or damage were reported there. Colombian authorities confirmed that the country's Caribbean coast faced no tsunami threat.
In Brazil, authorities evacuated buildings in the Amazonian cities of Manaus, Belem and Macapa following the tremors.
The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Center initially issued tsunami alerts for the Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic, while a warning for Puerto Rico was later withdrawn.
Although Venezuela lies near several fault lines, strong earthquakes are relatively rare compared to countries along the Pacific Ring of Fire, such as Chile and Mexico, where seismic activity is more frequent.