A fresh 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck Venezuela on Saturday, further rattling a nation already devastated by the twin earthquakes that have killed more than 1,400 people and left thousands injured and missing. The latest tremor hit offshore near the state of Aragua and was felt across several northern regions of the country.
The new earthquake comes amid ongoing rescue operations following the powerful 7.2 and 7.5-magnitude quakes that struck Venezuela earlier this week, causing widespread destruction in Caracas, La Guaira and other coastal areas. Authorities fear the latest aftershock could weaken already damaged structures and hamper efforts to find survivors trapped beneath the rubble.
Emergency officials reported no immediate casualties from the 5.6-magnitude tremor, but residents rushed out of buildings in panic as memories of the earlier deadly earthquakes remain fresh. Thousands of people continue to spend nights outdoors, afraid of further aftershocks and potential building collapses.
International rescue teams from several countries, including the United States, Colombia, Mexico and European nations, remain on the ground assisting Venezuelan authorities. More than 1,600 foreign rescue personnel, search dogs and medical teams have joined the massive humanitarian operation.
The twin earthquakes and their continuing aftershocks have triggered one of Venezuela's worst natural disasters in decades. The United Nations estimates that the economic damage could run into billions of dollars, while tens of thousands of people remain displaced. Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to stay alert and follow safety instructions as seismic activity continues.
