Caracas: Venezuelan authorities have declared a nationwide state of emergency after a series of powerful earthquakes and multiple aftershocks rattled large parts of the country, causing structural damage, disrupting essential services and triggering widespread concern among residents.
Interim President Delcy Rodríguez announced the emergency measures after two strong tremors struck within a short span of time, followed by dozens of smaller seismic events. The earthquakes were felt across several regions, including the capital city of Caracas, where buildings suffered visible damage and emergency teams were deployed to assess risks.
Officials said rescue and disaster response units were mobilised immediately following the quakes. Authorities have begun inspecting residential complexes, government buildings, hospitals and transport infrastructure to determine the extent of the destruction.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as residents rushed out of homes, offices and shopping centres when the ground began shaking. In some areas, falling debris damaged vehicles and blocked roads, while power interruptions were reported in parts of the country.
The government said the emergency declaration would allow faster deployment of resources, emergency funding and support for affected communities. Temporary shelters have been prepared for families displaced by damaged or unsafe structures.
Seismologists recorded nearly two dozen aftershocks in the hours following the initial earthquakes, raising concerns about further damage to already weakened buildings. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and follow safety advisories as assessments continue.
While no official nationwide casualty figure had been released at the time of reporting, emergency services were continuing search and inspection operations in affected areas. Medical teams were also placed on standby to assist injured residents and provide support where needed.
The earthquakes represent one of the most significant seismic events to hit Venezuela in recent years, prompting renewed discussions about disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience in vulnerable urban areas. Officials said monitoring would continue around the clock as experts track seismic activity and evaluate the possibility of additional aftershocks in the coming days.
