Venezuela is facing one of its deadliest natural disasters in decades after two powerful earthquakes struck the country’s northern region, killing at least 235 people and injuring more than 1,500.
Rescue teams, volunteers and residents are working around the clock to search for survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings. However, damaged infrastructure and limited equipment have slowed relief operations in several areas.
Two Powerful Earthquakes Strike Within Seconds
According to the United States Geological Survey, the two earthquakes measured magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5. They struck less than a minute apart on Wednesday night, causing widespread destruction across northern Venezuela.
The powerful tremors cracked roads, brought down buildings and left many structures leaning dangerously. Strong aftershocks continued on Thursday, creating fresh concerns for rescue workers and residents.
Death Toll Rises as Rescue Efforts Continue
Carlos Alvarado confirmed that the death toll has increased to at least 235, while more than 1,500 people have been injured.
Emergency teams are continuing search-and-rescue operations in the hardest-hit areas. However, officials fear the number of casualties could rise further as crews reach more collapsed buildings.
Many residents joined rescue efforts using their hands and basic tools because heavy equipment was not immediately available.
Heartbreaking Scenes Across La Guaira
The state of La Guaira has suffered some of the worst damage.
Residents described heartbreaking moments as trapped victims called for help from beneath the rubble. In one incident, locals heard a young girl crying for assistance for several hours. Despite desperate efforts to rescue her, she later died before help could reach her.
Elsewhere in the state, survivors reported hearing several people trapped inside collapsed buildings while lacking the equipment needed to free them.
Hospitals have also been overwhelmed. Doctors said some injured children arrived alone in ambulances after being rescued from destroyed buildings.
Relief Operations Face Major Challenges
Rescue workers said operations remain difficult because of damaged infrastructure, limited technical resources and a shortage of trained personnel.
The government has declared La Guaira a disaster zone, and interim president Delcy Rodríguez visited the affected region to assess the situation.
Meanwhile, reports of looting emerged in some areas as residents struggled to access essential supplies.
Another major concern is the closure of the international airport in La Guaira after it sustained significant damage, making relief operations more complicated.
International Community Offers Support
Countries around the world have pledged assistance to Venezuela following the disaster.
Switzerland, Spain, France, Portugal and Mexico are sending rescue specialists and emergency response teams to help locate survivors.
The United States announced that it would deploy warships, transport aircraft and helicopters while providing $150 million in humanitarian assistance.
China, India, Brazil and Iran have also offered support. In addition, Pope Leo XIV has donated an initial 100,000 euros for relief efforts.
António Guterres expressed deep sadness over the tragedy, while UN emergency relief chief Tom Fletcher said the scale of destruction would require a massive international response.
Tremors Felt Beyond Venezuela
The earthquakes were also felt in neighbouring countries.
Residents in Bogotá evacuated buildings as a precaution after strong tremors reached the Colombian capital.
Seismic monitoring agencies also reported shaking in several cities across northern Brazil.
One of Venezuela’s Strongest Earthquakes in More Than a Century
Experts say Venezuela’s northern coastline lies along the boundary between the Caribbean and South American tectonic plates.
The 7.5-magnitude earthquake is believed to be the country’s strongest since 1900. Previous major earthquakes in 1967 and 1997 also caused significant loss of life.
As rescue efforts continue, families across the country remain hopeful that more survivors will be found beneath the rubble.