Caracas, June 25: Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, causing widespread devastation and significant loss of life. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the disaster. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that initial reports were not promising.
Prime Minister Modi took to social media platform X to express his condolences. He stated, “I am deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the severe earthquakes in Venezuela. On behalf of the people of India, I extend heartfelt sympathies to the government and people of Venezuela, especially to those families who have lost their loved ones.”
He further added, “We pray for the swift recovery of the injured and stand in solidarity with all affected during this difficult time. India is ready to provide any possible assistance.”
In a separate statement, President Trump remarked, “The two major earthquakes that just hit the great people of Venezuela are significant, resulting in numerous fatalities. America is prepared to help. I have instructed all government agencies to be ready quickly. We will be there for our new and good friends. The initial reports are not good.”
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) warned that the death toll could ultimately range from 10,000 to 100,000. Reporters from the Xinhua news agency reported shaking windows and falling bookshelves in Caracas. Social media images showed several collapsed buildings on the streets of Caracas.
The USGS reported a magnitude 7.1 earthquake at 2204 GMT on Wednesday evening, followed by a stronger 7.5 magnitude quake just one minute later. Both tremors occurred near the coastal city of Morón, approximately 160 kilometers west of Caracas.
The earthquakes struck at a depth of 10 kilometers, increasing their potential danger. Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela’s Minister of Home Affairs, Justice, and Peace, stated that the quakes caused damage across cities nationwide.
Cabello noted that several buildings collapsed in the eastern part of the Caracas metropolitan area but did not provide immediate information on casualties or injuries. He urged Venezuelans to avoid staying inside buildings in the coming hours due to the risk of aftershocks, which could cause further collapses. He also called for calm and unity among the people to cope with the post-earthquake situation.
Meanwhile, Colombian media reported that the earthquakes were also felt strongly in several cities across neighboring Colombia. The USGS indicated that these two earthquakes could result in a high number of casualties and extensive damage.
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