Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, has declared a state of emergency following a series of powerful earthquakes that caused widespread structural collapse and forced the closure of the country’s main airport. Emergency crews are currently conducting search-and-rescue operations across Caracas and several surrounding states, including Miranda, La Guaira, Aragua, Carabobo, and Falcón, as officials report multiple building collapses and an unknown number of casualties.
What is the current status of the emergency response?
The Venezuelan government has mobilized the Bolivarian National Guard to lead the disaster response, with Gen. Juan Ernesto Sulbarán Quintero placed in charge of military operations. According to interim president Delcy Rodríguez, the state’s primary airport has been closed due to “severe damage,” and both the metro and train systems in the capital have been suspended indefinitely. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello confirmed on state television that security and civil assistance teams are currently working through the night to locate trapped survivors amid reports of collapsed residential buildings.
How are international partners responding to the crisis?
The United States government has pledged to deploy a disaster assistance team to support recovery efforts in Venezuela. Jeremy Lewin, the US under secretary of state for foreign assistance, announced via X that the US is coordinating with the interim Venezuelan government to provide search-and-rescue teams, medical supplies, and humanitarian resources. While the US embassy in Caracas reported that all American personnel are accounted for, the region remains volatile as rescue workers navigate the aftermath of the quakes.
What are the primary risks for residents in affected areas?
Local officials, including Chacao municipality mayor Gustavo Duque, have warned residents to avoid damaged structures and seek shelter in public plazas due to the high risk of aftershocks. In the coastal state of Falcón, Governor Victor Clark reported 22 injuries and 15 missing persons. Rescue efforts remain hampered by darkness, though workers have already successfully extracted 18 survivors from a single collapsed building in the Chacao district.
Comparison of Reported Impacts by Region
| Region | Reported Status |
|---|---|
| Caracas | Severe damage, airport/metro closed. |
| Falcón | 22 injured, 15 missing. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are international rescue teams allowed in?
Yes, the US government has announced plans to send search-and-rescue teams and humanitarian supplies to assist local Venezuelan authorities.
Is the Caracas airport operational?
No, the main airport has been closed by the government following reports of severe structural damage caused by the seismic activity.
Where should residents go for safety?
Officials have urged citizens to evacuate damaged buildings and relocate to public plazas to avoid risks associated with potential aftershocks.
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