Venezuela Hit by Strongest Earthquake Since 1900
Quick Look
Venezuela experienced two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in Yaracuy state, resulting in 32 deaths and 700 injuries, making it the strongest seismic event since 1900, according to The New York Times citing USGS data.
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Why It Matters
Venezuela experienced its strongest earthquake since 1900, with the recent 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude quakes causing significant casualties and destruction, drawing comparisons to a 1900 event that killed 21 people.
NEW YORK, June 25. /TASS/. The earthquake that struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening was the strongest in the country since 1900, The New York Times reported, citing data from the US Geological Survey archives.
The 1900 earthquake had a magnitude of 7.7. This estimate was based on reports of damage because the technology to measure it did not exist at the time. The disaster in Caracas 126 years ago killed 21 people and injured 50. According to a November 18, 1900 New York Times report, about 300 houses were destroyed, and many people were forced to live in tents. Church spires collapsed, and government buildings and the university building were damaged, the newspaper noted.
On Wednesday evening, Venezuela experienced two series of earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5. Their epicenters were located 10 kilometers apart in the Venezuelan state of Yaracuy. According to Venezuela's authorized president Delcy Rodriguez, at least 32 people were killed, 700 were injured, and dozens of buildings were destroyed.
Open Questions
- What is the full extent of infrastructure damage?
- What are the ongoing recovery efforts?
- Are there further aftershock risks?
