Venezuela Experiences Back-to-Back Earthquakes, State of Emergency Declared

A 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck near the northern coast of Venezuela, causing significant damage in the capital, Caracas, just 40 seconds after a foreshock of 7.2 magnitude. Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez confirmed fatalities and declared a state of emergency, with hundreds of emergency workers engaged in rescue efforts. Residents evacuated buildings amid the chaos, while a local described the scene as distressing. The US Tsunami Warning Centers reported no tsunami threat following the earthquakes. Dr. Lucy Jones, a seismologist from Caltech, noted that strong shaking in densely populated areas could lead to additional hazards, such as fires from ruptured gas lines. Venezuela's media landscape is heavily restricted, complicating the flow of information regarding the earthquakes. Internet connectivity has declined sharply, affecting communication. Rodríguez announced the closure of Maiquetía International Airport due to infrastructure damage, and classes nationwide have been suspended. Rescue operations are ongoing, with reports of collapsed buildings in several states, including Miranda and La Guaira. Solidarity messages have been received from other Latin American governments.