Venezuela’s interim President, Delcy Rodriguez, has declared a state of emergency following two powerful earthquakes and nearly two dozen aftershocks that struck the country, causing widespread destruction in the capital, Caracas.
Addressing the nation on state television alongside National Assembly leader Jorge Rodriguez and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, the president expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the disaster.
Rodriguez also announced the temporary closure of Maiquetia International Airport after the facility sustained significant structural damage from the earthquakes, which measured 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude.
According to government figures, at least 32 people were killed and more than 700 others injured as buildings collapsed and residents fled in panic during the twin tremors.
Journalist Noris Soto, reporting from Caracas, said many residents were at home enjoying a public holiday and watching the World Cup when the earthquakes struck.
“I was at home, watching the World Cup like many others, when we felt a massive jolt,” Soto said. “Glass shattered everywhere, and my building cracked down the middle.”
She described scenes of confusion and fear as residents rushed to evacuate their homes and apartment buildings.
“People were trying to get out as quickly as possible. We were not prepared for what happened today. This is a very critical situation, and many people are still trying to understand what has happened,” she said.
Soto noted that many Venezuelans had little experience dealing with earthquakes, as the last major tremor to affect the country occurred decades ago.
“When the ground beneath you starts shaking, you don’t know what will happen next. It is a terrifying experience that no one should have to go through,” she added.
The full extent of the damage remains unclear, with communication networks severely disrupted across affected areas.
“We have limited information because phone and internet services are down,” Soto explained. “But from what we have been able to gather, the situation appears to be even worse than initially feared.”
She said many families have been left homeless and have lost their belongings as rescue and assessment efforts continue across the country.