Twin Powerful Earthquakes Kill 32, Injure Hundreds in Venezuela
New Delhi , June 25 (TNT): Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening, killing at least 32 people and injuring hundreds , authorities said, as rescue teams searched damaged buildings and officials declared a state of emergency in affected areas.
The first quake, measured at magnitude 7.2, struck west of Morón, about 168 km (104 miles) west of Caracas, at a depth of 22 km.
Roughly a minute later, a second, stronger earthquake of magnitude 7.5 hit southwest of Morón at a depth of 10 km, according to preliminary reports.
Acting President Delcy Rodriguez said La Guaira state was the hardest-hit area, with significant structural damage reported in several communities. Authorities have mobilized emergency services and relief personnel as assessments continue.
Residents in the capital, Caracas, reported strong shaking, while images and videos circulating on social media showed damaged buildings, debris-strewn streets and frightened residents evacuating homes and offices.
The United States Geological Survey said the earthquakes were among the strongest to strike Venezuela in more than a century and warned that casualties and damage could rise as information from affected regions becomes available.
Airports and public services in some areas were disrupted, while authorities urged residents to remain alert for possible aftershocks.
Emergency crews continued search-and-rescue operations late into the night.
TNT TS
