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Two powerful earthquakes struck northern Venezuela on Wednesday, collapsing buildings in cities including the capital, Caracas, and killing more than 160 people. The quakes, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5 occurring 39 seconds apart, were the strongest to hit the country in over a century. The government declared a state of emergency as rescue teams searched for survivors.

Coverage comparison

Reports on the earthquakes differ on the casualty figures. Al Jazeera reported at least 164 people killed and close to 1,000 wounded, while the South China Morning Post, citing interim President Delcy Rodriguez, put the toll at 188 dead and more than 1,500 injured. The discrepancy may reflect the evolving situation as rescue efforts continued.

Both outlets reported the earthquakes' magnitude and the government's emergency declaration. The South China Morning Post added that over 200 people were trapped under rubble.

Key claims

  • The earthquakes had magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, striking 39 seconds apart, according to the South China Morning Post.
  • At least 164 people were killed and close to 1,000 wounded, as reported by Al Jazeera.
  • Over 1500 injured and over 200 trapped under rubble, as reported by the South China Morning Post.
  • Venezuela declared a state of emergency, with the coastal state of La Guaira named a disaster zone, according to both outlets.
  • The United States offered assistance to Venezuela, with President Donald Trump pledging on Truth Social, "The U.S.A. stands ready, willing, and able to help!" as reported by Al Jazeera.
  • Sanctions on Venezuela were partially lifted after the abduction of Nicolas Maduro, as reported by Al Jazeera.

Perspectives

US-Venezuela relations: Al Jazeera reported that the United States is mobilizing assistance, and that sanctions have been partially lifted since US forces abducted then-President Nicolas Maduro in January. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez thanked Trump for "offering support and solidarity" and the two administrations are on stable terms.

International aid offers: The South China Morning Post reported that Venezuela received offers of rescue teams and humanitarian aid from across the Americas, including from right-wing governments that had broken off diplomatic relations with Caracas less than two years ago. Several governments offered help within hours.

Expert concerns: Al Jazeera quoted expert Sarah Schiffling, deputy director of Finland's HUMLOG Institute, who said concerns dominate discussions about aid operations, specifically that aid may not reach those in need.