Venezuela is grappling with the aftermath of two powerful earthquakes that have claimed at least 235 lives, marking the deadliest seismic event to strike the nation in over a century. Survivors and emergency teams are relentlessly sifting through the rubble of collapsed buildings, desperately searching for those still trapped alive, often hindered by a severe lack of specialized rescue equipment.
Venezuela earthquake death toll
Venezuelan Health Minister Carlos Alvarado confirmed the rising fatality count on state television Thursday, stating that hospitals had received approximately 235 individuals who either arrived without vital signs or succumbed to their injuries shortly after admission.
The devastating quakes, particularly Wednesday's event, are being categorized as the strongest to hit Venezuela in 126 years. The last comparable seismic activity occurred on October 29, 1900, when a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of northeast Caracas.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the first tremor, registering 7.2 magnitude, struck at 6:04 PM local time. It originated at a depth of 21.9 kilometers, approximately 200 kilometers from the capital. A mere 39 seconds later, an even more powerful 7.5-magnitude quake followed, shallower at 10 kilometers deep and closer to the capital at 45 kilometers distance. These primary events were succeeded by around 30 strong aftershocks that continued to ripple through the region until Thursday.
The northern state of La Guaira, situated north of the capital, has borne the brunt of the destruction. Heart-wrenching scenes unfolded as residents navigated the debris-strewn streets, calling out the names of missing family members amidst widespread devastation.
Related topics: Venezuela earthquake, seismic event, natural disaster, rescue efforts, La Guaira, Carlos Alvarado
DZWatch provides English-language coverage of Algeria-focused developments for international readers.
