In brief
In a dramatic seismic event, Caracas was struck by twin earthquakes two seconds apart, with the second measuring magnitude 7.5. The tremors caused widespread building collapse and forced residents into the streets. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency and mobilised response teams. The earthquakes are believed to have originated deep in the Andes foothills. Rescue operations are ongoing, with authorities advising citizens to stay outdoors and avoid elevators.
At 11:15 a.m. local time on Tuesday, Caracas was rocked by two powerful earthquakes striking just seconds apart. The second – measuring magnitude 7.5 – was one of the strongest tremors recorded in Venezuela in the last 100 years.
Streets around the capital and commercial areas were plunged into chaos as buildings crumbled, residents fled into the streets, and emergency services rushed to the scene. BBC reporters captured the trembling city in a series of split‑second shots, documenting the dramatic aftermath.
Venezuela’s interim President, Delcy Rodríguez, declared a state of emergency following the explosions, calling on national authorities to mobilise resources and coordinate rescue operations.
The two quakes were recorded by the Venezuelan seismic monitoring network and are suspected to have originated near the Andes foothills, about 250 kilometres from the capital.
Following this seismic event, local authorities have urged terrified residents to remain outdoors and not to use elevators. The country's emergency response units have reassured the public that all shelters are functioning adequately.
