News Desk - Venezuela has declared a state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5, struck near the Caribbean coast and shook the capital Caracas. The quakes caused buildings to collapse, forced people into the streets, and led authorities to close Maiquetía International Airport..

The first quake hit west of Morón, followed seconds later by a stronger tremor in the same region, according to seismic agencies. Officials said the epicenter was shallow, which intensified the shaking across a wide area, including Caracas and surrounding states. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said several buildings and homes collapsed in the capital, including in the Altamira district, where emergency crews reported dangerous structural damage.

Vice President Delcy Rodríguez said the government was responding to the disaster and that about 20 aftershocks followed the main quakes, raising fears of further collapse in already weakened structures. Reports from Caracas described panic as residents evacuated swaying buildings, while rescue teams worked to pull people from the rubble. Authorities also warned people to stay outside damaged structures because aftershocks could trigger more destruction.

The twin earthquakes have left Venezuela facing a major humanitarian and infrastructure crisis, with officials still assessing the full toll. With aftershocks continuing and damage mounting in Caracas and beyond, emergency teams remain on high alert.