Venezuela Earthquakes kill 32, injures 700 as buildings collapse across Caracas

Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday, causing widespread devastation and significant loss of life.

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), a magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit approximately 160 km west of Caracas, followed less than a minute later by a magnitude 7.5 tremor.

As a result of these extremely powerful earthquakes, at least 32 people have been killed and 700 injured when dozens of buildings razed to ground, as confirmed by interim leader Rodriguez.

By utilizing predictive modeling, the USGC warns that the death toll is likely to reach into the thousands, with a significant possibility around 40 percent that fatalities could exceed 10,000. There is also a 30 percent chance that the death toll could reach 100,00.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency, mobilized rescuers, suspended classes, and closed the main airport, while aftershocks continue and the death toll may continue to rise amid searches through rubble.

Speaking about the worst-affected areas, locations near Caracas and housing the city’s primary airport are reported to be the most severely impacted.

In the wake of horrific devastation, the US President offered help to the South American country. On Truth Social post, Trump posted that the US "stands ready, willing, and able to help", adding that he had "instructed all agencies of our government to get ready to move quickly.” Rodríguez thanked the US President for the US support.

Moreover, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado posted on X, stating her prayers were with Venezuelans in these "hours of anguish."

"May strength, serenity and solidarity prevail among us in this difficult moment," she posted.

A tsunami warning was issued shortly after the quakes but was swiftly canceled once the danger passed.