Two earthquakes struck Venezuela on Thursday, causing buildings to collapse in the capital and leaving hundreds of residents shaken. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the first quake with a magnitude of 7.2 struck the community of Moron along the country’s Caribbean coast, about 168 km (104 miles) west of Caracas, at a depth of 22 km (14 miles).
Moments later, an even stronger 7.5 magnitude earthquake hit, with a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles) and its epicentre 16 km (10 miles) southwest of Moron.
The strong tremors compelled the Venezuelan government to implement emergency measures and shut down all educational and government institutions after several buildings sustained damage.
Neighbouring countries, including Cuba and El Salvador, have expressed their solidarity with Venezuela and offered all possible assistance.
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele said his country has offered help through its foreign ministry. “300 rescuers and paramedics, along with 50 tonnes of equipment, medicines, and essential supplies, are ready to depart for Caracas,” Bukele said in a post on X.
Mexico has also offered assistance and expressed solidarity with the country.
Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodríguez announced the cancellation of school classes, the suspension of metro and rail services, and the halt of non-essential activities, according to official sources.
Rodríguez also said she had ordered the activation of the military’s General Staff, to be led by the commander general of the Bolivarian National Guard.
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