- Twin Tremors in Yaracuy Leave Dozens Dead and Hundreds Injured
CARACAS: The powerful earthquake that struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening was the strongest recorded in the country since 1900, according to a report by The New York Times, which cited historical data from the US Geological Survey (USGS).
The disaster triggered widespread destruction, leaving at least 32 people dead, around 700 injured, and causing significant damage to buildings and infrastructure across affected areas.
Strongest Quake Since the Historic 1900 Disaster
The last earthquake of comparable strength occurred in 1900 and was estimated to have reached a magnitude of 7.7. At the time, modern seismic instruments did not exist, and scientists based their estimates on the scale of the destruction and eyewitness accounts.
That historic earthquake struck Caracas 126 years ago, claiming 21 lives and injuring 50 others. According to a New York Times report published on November 18, 1900, approximately 300 homes were destroyed, forcing many residents to seek shelter in temporary camps and tents.
The disaster also caused the collapse of church spires and inflicted severe damage on government buildings and the country’s university infrastructure.
Twin Earthquakes Rock Yaracuy State
On Wednesday, Venezuela experienced two powerful seismic events measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude. The epicenters were located approximately 10 kilometers apart in the western state of Yaracuy, intensifying the impact on nearby communities.
Emergency response teams were immediately deployed as authorities assessed the scale of the devastation and coordinated rescue operations.
Authorities Confirm Casualties and Structural Damage
According to Venezuelan official Delcy Rodríguez, the earthquakes resulted in at least 32 fatalities and around 700 injuries, while dozens of residential and public buildings were either destroyed or severely damaged.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation amid concerns over aftershocks and the humanitarian needs of affected communities.
The twin tremors have renewed attention to Venezuela’s seismic vulnerability and underscored the importance of disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure in earthquake-prone regions.
BY: The Times Union
