At least 32 individuals lost their lives and 700 others sustained injuries following two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela in rapid succession.
The initial earthquake, measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale, occurred late on Wednesday, June 24 near Caracas, the capital city. Just 39 seconds later, a more severe 7.5-magnitude earthquake rocked the South American nation.
Videos shared on social media depicted vehicles trembling, streets engulfed in smoke, and structural damage within certain buildings.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez confirmed the death toll of 32 and the injuries of 700 from the earthquakes, as reported by local media sources.
The US Geological Survey (USGS) previously indicated a high likelihood of significant casualties, extensive destruction, and widespread disaster.
Reports emerged of individuals trapped under debris from buildings affected by the tremors. Distraught residents collaborated with rescue teams to scour through the rubble in search of quake victims.
Olky Barrero, a 56-year-old teacher assisting in the search efforts, expressed the harrowing experience and hopes for minimal casualties, stating, “It was horrible. We hope to God that there are as few victims as possible. We’re praying.”
As the earthquake shook structures, residents hastily evacuated and later recounted the terrifying moments of buildings swaying.
Roberto Damas described the intense shaking, saying, “The building really shook from side to side. Unreal. The force was incredibly strong. We were walking and it was tossing us around. Everything in the apartment fell. Well, thank God we were able to get out.”
Coastal residents in Venezuela also raised concerns about a potential tsunami following the earthquakes.
The US Tsunami Warning Centers reassured that the tsunami threat had subsided, eliminating any further danger.