Venezuela Earthquake Causes Casualties and Damage
Late Wednesday, President Donald Trump addressed the catastrophic impact of two significant earthquakes in Venezuela, highlighting a “catastrophic number of deaths” as first responders worked to evaluate the situation.
Venezuela’s interim President, Delcy Rodríguez, reported a confirmed death toll of at least 32 individuals, with more than 700 residents injured. This information marked the country’s initial official count following the quake.
Trump’s remarks came after a series of earthquakes struck Venezuela earlier that day, creating extensive destruction, especially in the capital, Caracas, where rescue teams combed through the debris of damaged buildings.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that the two “major” earthquakes led to severe damage across the region.
Impact During a Baseball Game
One of the earthquakes disrupted an ongoing baseball game, prompting players and attendees to quickly evacuate the stadium.
“These two major earthquakes hit the great people of Venezuela, both large in scale, with devastating consequences,” Trump noted.
He also emphasized that the United States is prepared to assist in the aftermath of this disaster. “America is ready, willing and able to help! I have instructed all government agencies to act swiftly. We’ll be there for our new great friends,” he added.
Trump indicated that early information from Venezuela was “not good.”
US Geological Survey Reports
The first earthquake struck with a magnitude of 7.2 at 6:04 p.m. ET, located about 15 miles east-northeast of San Felipe. Just under a minute later, a second, more powerful quake registering at 7.5 hit approximately 22 kilometers southeast of Yumalé.
The U.S. Geological Survey issued a warning that significant casualties and damage were expected, indicating that the disaster could be extensive.
Response from Venezuelan Authorities
Officials identified this quake as one of the strongest to impact Venezuela in over a century. In response, Rodríguez declared a state of emergency following the earthquakes, which were succeeded by nearly 20 aftershocks.
In a televised address, she urged the public to remain calm and focused on unity during this challenging time.
Rodríguez reiterated on Thursday that, as per her previous statement, the death toll had risen to at least 32, while also calling for solidarity among citizens.
Christopher Landau, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, shared on X that U.S. officials are collaborating with Venezuelan authorities to facilitate aid to the affected nation.
Ongoing Monitoring and Support
President Trump reiterated that the U.S. stands by the Venezuelan people after this devastating earthquake, stating, “We are in contact with authorities and mobilizing support.” The State Department conveyed that it was closely tracking developments following the earthquake.
The agency expressed condolences to the victims and committed to supporting the Venezuelan people during this difficult period, advising U.S. citizens living in Venezuela to register for updates and remain informed about the situation through the embassy.
