President Donald Trump stated late Wednesday that two significant earthquakes had struck Venezuela, leading to a considerable number of deaths. Venezuelan interim President Delcy Rodríguez later announced that the earthquakes resulted in at least 32 fatalities and over 700 injuries. These figures represented the first official casualty count for the nation.
The earthquakes occurred earlier on Wednesday, causing extensive damage across Venezuela. In Caracas, the capital, buildings were damaged, and rescue teams worked tirelessly searching through debris. Trump shared his thoughts on Truth Social, describing the earthquakes as massive and devastating.
The two major earthquakes that just hit the great people of Venezuela are both massive in scale and have left a devastating number of deaths,Trump wrote.
He assured that the United States was ready to assist.
The U.S.A. stands ready, willing, and able to help!said Trump.I have instructed all agencies of our government to get ready to move quickly. We will be there for our new and great friends.
Reports from Venezuela initially appeared grim. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake first struck at 6:04 p.m. ET, with its epicenter located 15 miles east-northeast of San Felipe. A subsequent 7.5 magnitude quake followed just 39 seconds later, centered about 14 miles southeast of Yumare.
The USGS issued a rare red alert, indicating high casualties and widespread damage were likely.
Authorities said these were among the strongest earthquakes in Venezuela in over a century. Rodríguez declared a state of emergency and cautioned people to remain calm while urging unity.
We urge our population to remain calm,Rodríguez said.We urge unity.
On Thursday, Rodríguez confirmed the extent of the tragedy, with 32 reported dead and more than 700 injured. U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau indicated the U.S. was coordinating with Venezuelan authorities to deliver aid.
The State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs monitored the ongoing developments, offering condolences and expressing commitment to assisting Venezuela.
The U.S. Government is closely monitoring the aftermath of a large earthquake in Venezuela,the bureau stated, emphasizing their support for the Venezuelan people.
The bureau encouraged U.S. citizens in Venezuela to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates.