SAN FELIPE, Venezuela, June 25 (World Daily Times) — The U.S. Geological Survey said two major earthquakes struck Venezuela 39 seconds apart Wednesday evening, triggering red alerts from its PAGER system and warning of likely high casualties and widespread damage.
The quakes were reported at magnitudes of 7.5 and 7.2, with epicenters near San Felipe and Yumare, according to the USGS. Reports from Venezuelan authorities said the shaking damaged buildings in Caracas and sent rescue crews searching through debris.
Delcy Rodríguez said the government declared a state of emergency after the quakes. She later said at least 32 people had died and more than 700 were injured.
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 said he had ordered U.S. agencies to prepare to move quickly.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau said officials were in contact with Venezuelan authorities and were mobilizing assistance. The State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs said it was closely monitoring the aftermath and extending condolences.
Senior State Department official Jeremy Lewin said a disaster assistance team and task force had been set up to coordinate aid, including search-and-rescue support, medical supplies and humanitarian assistance.
