Devastating earthquakes in Venezuela as death toll could exceed 100,000

At least 32 people have been killed in two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on Wednesday. Hundreds more have been injured in the sudden natural disaster, according to acting President Delcy Rodríguez, who confirmed the figures citing the Associated Press (AP).

However, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has warned that the death toll from this severe disaster could rise dramatically, potentially ranging between 10,000 and 100,000. According to its estimates, there is a 44% probability that fatalities could exceed 10,000, and a 30% chance that they could surpass 100,000.

USGS has further cautioned that the risk of large-scale casualties and widespread destruction spans a very broad area, indicating significant potential impact.

Following the devastating earthquakes, the acting president declared a nationwide state of emergency. Reports from Al Jazeera state that operations at Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía have been completely suspended due to extensive damage.

According to Venezuelan media outlet La Patilla, all schools and colleges have been temporarily closed. Subway and railway services have also been suspended, and non-essential activities have been halted. Rodríguez said the military general staff has been instructed to take emergency measures, and the Bolivarian National Guard will lead rescue operations.

Meanwhile, Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said many people are in severe distress and that rescue efforts are being intensified to deliver urgent assistance. In a televised address, he urged citizens to take care of children and the elderly and to check on one another. He noted that the situation in Altamira, a neighborhood in Caracas, is particularly concerning due to multiple building collapses. He also urged drivers to keep roads clear so emergency teams can operate efficiently.

According to USGS data, the first earthquake struck at around 6:00 p.m. local time on Wednesday near San Felipe, about 284 kilometers west of Caracas, with a magnitude of 7.2. The second quake, measuring 7.5, struck shortly afterward near Yumar, about 293 kilometers west of the capital.

The twin earthquakes have caused widespread building collapses and significant damage across Caracas and other regions. Military forces are continuing rescue operations on the ground as authorities attempt to bring the situation under control.