Venezuela Earthquakes: USGS Forecasts Death Toll Could Reach 100,000
Venezuela: Powerful 7.1 and 7.5 earthquakes has struck western Venezuela on Wednesday evening, causing massive destruction and building collapses. The incident has sparked widespread panic and fears of a major humanitarian disaster. According to United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake may claim 10,000 to 100,000 lives.
Videos show horrific images of people screaming in panic as the earthquake hits their areas. The first earthquake, measuring 7.2 in magnitude, struck near San Felipe, approximately 284 kilometres west of Caracas, at 22:04 GMT, and it was followed almost immediately by a second, stronger quake measuring 7.5 near Yumare, about 293 kilometres west of the capital.
Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau said late on Wednesday that the US was in touch with Venezuelan authorities following an earthquake and was mobilizing assistance for the South American nation. Landau said they are in touch with the authorities and mobilising assistance.
Chaotic videos are surfacing online from the Venezuela, where people are seen screaming and running for their lives. Footage from inside airport showed panic and devastation at the complex.
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