A club-level baseball game in Venezuela was interrupted when a powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck west of Caracas. This was followed by a 7.5-magnitude earthquake just 39 seconds later. These tremors sparked widespread panic and caused significant damage across the city.
The baseball game was promptly halted as players sprinted from the dugout to the outfield. Fans and sportscasters also abandoned their seats and hurried to the same area.
Watch the video here:
The U.S. Geological Survey said the earthquakes occurred at shallow depths, triggering strong tremors across north-central Venezuela and neighboring Colombia.
“High casualties and extensive damage are probable, and the disaster is likely widespread,” the USGS was quoted as saying by the BBC.
According to the USGS, there is a 44% chance of more than 10,000 deaths and a 30% chance of more than 100,000.
The earthquake struck as many Venezuelans were at home celebrating a public holiday marking the 1821 military victory that led to independence from Spain.
In addition to Venezuela, strong tremors were felt in neighboring Colombia. The U.S. Tsunami Warning System issued a warning for Puerto Rico and the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, noting that waves could also affect islands near Venezuela, including Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire.
US President Donald Trump Reacts To Earthquake In Venezuela
US President Donald Trump reacted to the destruction in Venezuela with a post on Truth Social, writing:
“The two major earthquakes that just hit the great people of Venezuela are both massive in scale and have left a devastating number of deaths. The U.S.A. stands ready, willing, and able to help! I have instructed all agencies of our government to get ready to move quickly. We will be there for our new and great friends.”
Along with the USA, Ecuador and other Latin American countries have offered assistance to the country as well.
Also read:
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in baseball, tennis, college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
