Twin earthquakes devastate Venezuela leaving thousands missing

Venezuela has been hit by one of the deadliest natural disasters in its modern history. Two powerful earthquakes struck within less than a minute of each other, causing widespread destruction across Caracas and the country's coastal regions.

The first earthquake, measuring magnitude 7.2, struck about 160km west of the capital on Wednesday evening while just seconds later, a stronger magnitude 7.5 quake followed, triggering catastrophic damage. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), it was the country's strongest earthquake since 1900.

Thousands of buildings have collapsed, trapping countless residents beneath the rubble. More than 46,000 people have been reported missing, while international seismologists warn the final death toll could exceed 10,000. By Thursday evening, authorities had officially confirmed 235 deaths, though officials expect that number to rise significantly.

The disaster has crippled critical infrastructure. The power grid has failed, Caracas' international airport remains closed due to severe damage, and at least eight hospitals, the Venezuelan Red Cross headquarters, and the French embassy have either collapsed or suffered major structural damage. In La Guaira alone, around 70,000 families have lost their homes or can no longer live in them.

It is mentioned that rescue teams continue to search for survivors despite frequent aftershocks, while residents have joined recovery efforts, digging through debris by hand and delivering food, water, and medical supplies to isolated communities. Thousands of displaced people are spending nights outdoors as temporary shelters are being established.

The humanitarian crisis has prompted a swift international response. The United Nations is coordinating rescue operations and aid deliveries, while the United States has temporarily eased selected sanctions to facilitate relief efforts. The Pentagon is assisting with repairs to Caracas airport, and SpaceX has activated free Starlink satellite internet service to help restore communications across the country. Despite the widespread destruction, Venezuela's major oil production facilities have remained largely unaffected, allowing the country's most important economic sector to continue operating.

Seismologists described the twin earthquakes as an exceptionally rare event. Experts believe the first quake likely triggered the second by transferring stress along nearby fault lines at the boundary between the South American and Caribbean tectonic plates. They also warn that strong aftershocks remain possible in the coming days.