Rescuers in Caracas Pull Survivors from Rubble After Powerful Earthquake

Rescue efforts are underway in Caracas after a powerful earthquake struck Venezuela, with at least 18 people saved from under the debris in the city's Chacao municipality, as reported by TASS, citing CNN. The rescue operation involves more than 500 people, according to Chacao's Mayor Gustavo Duque.

Coverage Comparison

Two reports from TASS provide slightly different numbers of rescued individuals, reflecting the evolving situation. The first report, based on CNN, stated that 18 people had been saved. A subsequent report, also citing CNN and quoting Mayor Duque, put the number at 23. Both reports agree on the scale of the destruction, noting that at least two buildings have been completely ruined in Chacao.

The earthquake struck Venezuela on the evening of June 24, with two tremors measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude occurring approximately 40 seconds apart. Their epicenters were located about 10 kilometers apart in the state of Yaracuy.

Key Claims

  • At least 18 people were saved from under the debris in Caracas' Chacao municipality after the powerful earthquake, as reported by TASS.
  • At least two buildings have been completely ruined in Chacao municipality, according to Mayor Gustavo Duque.
  • Rescue works involve more than 500 people, as reported by TASS.
  • The earthquake struck Venezuela with magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, with epicenters ten kilometers apart in Yaracuy state.
  • Municipal Mayor Gustavo Duque said: "I am pleased to share that 23 people have been rescued. Fortunately, we hear that survivors are alive, and we are committed to rescuing them. We will remain here until the last person is saved. With God's help, I believe we will succeed." He also stated that those rescued are receiving medical attention.
  • At least 32 people lost their lives and around 700 were injured in the earthquake, as reported by Acting President Delcy Rodriguez.
  • Venezuelan authorities declared a state of emergency and designated the coastal state of La Guaira as a disaster zone.