English
On June 25, two powerful earthquakes struck the South American nation of Venezuela within seconds of each other, causing widespread devastation. The first earthquake measured magnitude 7.2, followed approximately 39 seconds later by a stronger magnitude 7.5 quake. Both earthquakes were centered near the town of Morón, west of the capital Caracas.
According to government officials, at least 188 people have been killed and more than 1,500 injured so far. Several buildings collapsed, while hospitals and public infrastructure suffered significant damage. Rescue operations are continuing amid fears that hundreds of people may still be trapped beneath the rubble.
The worst damage has been reported in Caracas and the La Guaira region, where numerous residential buildings were reduced to rubble. The country’s main international airport was also damaged and has been temporarily closed. Ongoing aftershocks are making rescue and relief efforts even more challenging.
The United Nations, along with the United States, France, Mexico, Spain, and several other countries, has announced humanitarian assistance and the deployment of rescue teams. International search and rescue personnel are working in the affected areas to locate and evacuate survivors.
Experts say this is one of the most destructive earthquakes to strike Venezuela in decades. Authorities have urged residents to stay away from damaged buildings and follow only official safety advisories.
