health
Venezuela earthquake: fatal back-to-back earthquakes in Caracas as experts warn of heavy death toll
Homes and buildings collapse after double quake, with tremors felt in neighbouring Colombia
TL;DR
- Two major earthquakes, a 7.5 mainshock and a 7.2 foreshock, struck Venezuela west of Caracas.
- The quakes caused extensive damage, with buildings collapsing in and around the capital.
- A state of emergency was declared, and citizens were urged to evacuate damaged structures.
- The Simón Bolívar International Airport and metro/train systems were closed due to severe damage.
- Initial reports indicate fatalities and numerous injuries, with high casualties being probable.
- Rescue efforts are underway in heavily damaged areas, including specific districts of Caracas.
- US President Donald Trump offered assistance to Venezuela.
- The epicentre was located about 168 km west of Caracas, with a depth of 13 km.