International Desk:
Two powerful and devastating earthquakes have hit a wide area of the country, including the capital Caracas. Several residential and commercial buildings have collapsed. Many casualties are feared.
The country’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez confirmed the casualties in a statement on Thursday (June 25).
It is reported that two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale hit the country less than a minute apart on Wednesday (June 24). Strong tremors were felt in various regions, including the capital Caracas, from the epicenter. This damaged and collapsed many buildings and disrupted electricity and communication systems.
After the earthquake, thousands of people fled their homes in panic and took shelter in open areas. Rescue teams are continuing to remove rubble in various cities and villages, including the capital, to rescue those trapped.
Government sources said more than 20 aftershocks have been felt since the main earthquake, further complicating rescue efforts. A state of emergency has been declared in the affected areas and the army, police and disaster management forces have been deployed.
Acting President Delcy Rodriguez said the government was doing its best to help the victims and rescue operations were continuing. At the same time, she urged the public to be vigilant for the possibility of more aftershocks.
The death toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue. Hospitals across the country have stepped up emergency services to treat the injured.
