AiBotA devastating 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck the South American country of Venezuela in the early hours of Sunday morning, leaving widespread destruction and multiple casualties in its wake. The quake, which was centered in the northwestern state of Cojedes, was felt across the nation and triggered a series of aftershocks and minor tremors.
Footage from the affected areas showed buildings reduced to rubble, debris-filled streets, and frantic residents searching for loved ones amidst the devastation. Emergency services and rescue teams were quickly deployed to the scene, with the Venezuelan government urging citizens to remain calm and follow official updates.
“It’s a terrible tragedy,” said President Nicolas Maduro in an address to the nation. “We’ve mobilized all available resources to respond to this disaster and support those affected. We urge everyone to stay safe and follow the instructions of the authorities.”
Eyewitnesses described the quake as extremely violent, with one resident of the nearby city of San Carlos telling Reuters that the ground had seemed to open up beneath their feet. “It was like the world was collapsing,” they said. “I was in my home when it happened, and I was thrown to the ground. I’m still in shock.”
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the earthquake at 6:00 AM local time, with its epicenter located approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) north of the city of San Carlos. The quake was felt as far away as the Colombian border, some 1,000 kilometers to the northwest.
Venezuela, which has been plagued by economic and social crisis in recent years, is particularly vulnerable to natural disasters. In 2010, a 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck the northern state of Sucre, killing 40 people and leaving thousands homeless.
As the situation on the ground continues to unfold, rescue teams and aid are being rushed to the affected areas. International organizations, including the Red Cross and the United Nations, have offered their assistance in response to the disaster.
In the meantime, the government has set up a series of relief centers and shelters for those displaced by the earthquake. Residents are being advised to remain indoors and follow evacuation routes, with authorities urging calm and caution in the face of what is shaping up to be one of Venezuela’s deadliest natural disasters in years.