Scenes of utter devastation have unfolded across Venezuela following two powerful earthquakes—measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale—that struck Caracas just 40 seconds apart. The official toll stands at at least 32 dead and 700 injured, with authorities warning the death count is expected to rise sharply.
Rescue Efforts Continue Through the Night
Search and rescue teams are working around the clock in Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, where signs of life continue to be detected beneath collapsed buildings. Gustavo Duque, mayor of the Chacao municipality—one of the hardest-hit areas—shared a video on Instagram confirming that rescuers have heard voices from survivors trapped under rubble.
“Fortunately, we’re hearing living people—and we will save them,” Duque said, adding that 23 individuals had been successfully extracted so far. “We will not leave this place until we’ve rescued every single person we can save alive. And with God’s help, we will succeed.”
Those rescued are receiving urgent medical care at local health centers. Authorities remain hopeful that more survivors will be found as operations intensify amid growing concerns over structural instability and limited resources.
International Response Mounts
The double seismic disaster has triggered a wave of international solidarity. Countries including the United States, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, Panama, Qatar, and Uruguay have pledged emergency assistance—including search-and-rescue teams, medical personnel, and humanitarian aid.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Washington is deploying rapid-response teams, medical staff, and critical supplies. Jeremy P. Konya, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for International Humanitarian Assistance, confirmed the State Department has activated a dedicated crisis response unit in coordination with Venezuela’s transitional government.
Interim President Delcy Rodríguez confirmed that Qatar’s rescue team is en route and expected to arrive in Caracas on Friday. Mexico and El Salvador are also dispatching specialized units. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and affirmed India’s readiness to provide full support. “I pray for the swift recovery of the injured and extend our heartfelt solidarity to all affected,” he said.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif likewise issued a message of condolence and support. Italy’s Foreign Minister also conveyed condolences and offered technical and logistical assistance to Venezuelan authorities.