Venezuela: Twin earthquakes devastate Caracas region
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Two powerful earthquakes struck near Caracas, Venezuela, leaving thousands feared dead and at least 164 people confirmed killed as of early Thursday, according to interim President Delcy Rodriguez. A magnitude 7.2 quake hit about 160 kilometers west of the capital on Wednesday afternoon, followed less than a minute later by a magnitude 7.5 tremor, the U.S. Geological Survey reported. The quakes caused extensive building collapses, particularly in La Guaira state near Caracas and the city’s main airport, where ceilings reportedly fell. Nearly 1,000 people are known to be injured, while emergency crews continue intensive overnight rescue operations amid strong aftershocks.
More context
Timeline
- Wednesday afternoon 7.2 magnitude quake strikes
- Less than a minute later 7.5 tremor follows
- Wednesday afternoon buildings collapse across Caracas neighborhoods
- Wednesday evening La Guaira state hit hardest
- Late Wednesday airport ceilings partially collapse
- Just before 1 a.m. Thursday Rodriguez details rescue efforts
- Early Thursday officials confirm at least 164 dead
- Today thousands still feared missing nationwide
Why it matters
This disaster in Venezuela could impact your wallet. It's likely to disrupt oil production, which can lead to higher gas prices. Keep an eye on the pump and consider carpooling or public transit to save money.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
