SAN FELIPE, Venezuela, June 25 (World Daily Times) — Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela 39 seconds apart on Wednesday evening, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, damaging buildings in Caracas and prompting emergency crews, Venezuelan officials and U.S. agencies to move on a response.
The USGS said the quakes measured 7.2 and 7.5 and were centered near San Felipe and Yumare. The agency’s PAGER system issued red alerts and projected the potential for severe casualties and major economic losses.
Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency after the quakes and later said at least 32 people had been killed and more than 700 injured. She said rescue teams were searching through collapsed and damaged buildings as authorities assessed the extent of the destruction.
President Donald Trump said on Truth Social that the earthquakes had caused “a devastating number of deaths” and that the United States stood ready to help. He also said he had instructed U.S. agencies “to get ready to move quickly.”
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau said U.S. officials were in contact with Venezuelan authorities and mobilizing assistance. Jeremy Lewin, a senior State Department official, said a disaster assistance team and task force had been set up to coordinate search-and-rescue support, medical supplies and humanitarian aid.
The State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs said it was monitoring the aftermath and extending condolences and support as Venezuelan officials continued rescue operations.
