Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening, causing buildings to collapse in the capital, Caracas, and prompting widespread evacuations. The US Geological Survey reported the first quake at magnitude 7.2, with an epicenter west of Morón, about 168 kilometers west of Caracas, at a depth of 13 kilometers. Minutes later, a second earthquake of magnitude 7.5 hit the same region, with a depth of 10 kilometers and an epicenter 16 kilometers southwest of Morón.
Widespread Damage and Casualties Expected
The USGS warned that "high casualties and extensive damage are probable and the disaster is likely widespread." Residents in Caracas fled swaying buildings and remained outdoors, visibly shocked as entire walls collapsed, exposing furniture to the street. Dust columns rose in two neighborhoods of the capital, where restaurants and businesses are typically busy.
Government Response and Public Safety
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello reported that the quake was felt in several states, with the Altamira neighborhood in Caracas experiencing "alarming situations" including collapsed homes and buildings. He urged people to stay outside due to the risk of aftershocks. "We understand that some people may be desperate, but we are acting according to protocols to activate aid and rescue efforts to help those who need it most," Cabello said on state television. "Be very careful with children and the elderly; call each other and check that no one has been harmed."
Resident Accounts of the Quake
Caracas resident Roberto Damas described the experience: "The building really shook from side to side. Unreal. The force was incredibly strong. We were walking and it was tossing us around. Everything in the apartment fell. Well, thank God we were able to get out."
