Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 164 as Powerful Quakes Devastate Caracas

Venezuela Reels After Strongest Earthquake in More Than a Century

Venezuela is facing a major humanitarian and economic crisis after a series of powerful earthquakes struck the country, leaving at least 164 people dead and 971 injured. According to acting President Delcy Rodríguez, the disaster was triggered by a magnitude 7.5 earthquake that struck just 39 seconds after a magnitude 7.2 foreshock, making it the strongest seismic event to hit Venezuela in more than 100 years.

Caracas Residents Describe Scenes of Destruction

The earthquakes caused widespread damage across Caracas and surrounding areas, with survivors describing terrifying scenes as buildings shook and infrastructure collapsed.

One resident who survived the devastating 1967 Caracas earthquake said the latest disaster was unlike anything he had ever experienced. Another resident who escaped from a damaged building compared the aftermath to “a horror movie,” highlighting the scale of destruction witnessed across the capital.

Emergency Response Underway

Rescue teams continue to search for survivors and assist victims trapped in affected areas. Venezuelan authorities have urged residents to remain inside their homes if their buildings have not suffered structural damage, as aftershocks remain a concern.

In response to the emergency, the Ministry of Education has suspended classes nationwide, while the Supreme Court of Justice has canceled official activities. Public transportation has also been severely disrupted, with Metro and railway services in Caracas remaining suspended.

Additionally, Simón Bolívar International Airport has been closed due to damage and ongoing safety assessments.

United States Sends Rescue Assistance

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that American rescue teams have already been deployed to Venezuela to support emergency operations. He also stated that additional assets will be sent to the country's main airport, which has reportedly suffered significant damage from the earthquakes.

Economic Challenges Deepen

The natural disaster comes at a particularly difficult time for Venezuela, which is already struggling with a prolonged political and financial crisis. Acting President Rodríguez said her administration is coordinating with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to establish an initial emergency assistance fund worth $200 million to support recovery efforts and humanitarian aid.

Recovery Efforts Continue

As search-and-rescue operations continue, authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage and provide relief to affected communities. With critical infrastructure disrupted and hundreds injured, the coming days will be crucial in determining the scale of Venezuela's recovery following one of the most devastating earthquakes in its modern history.