Key facts
- A magnitude 4.6 aftershock struck northern Venezuela early Monday.
- The tremor caused panic among residents and disrupted ongoing rescue efforts.
- Last week's earthquakes killed at least 1,450 people and left tens of thousands missing.
- Colombia's geological survey reported the aftershock's magnitude at 5.1.
- Rescue operations were temporarily suspended following the aftershock.
A magnitude 4.6 aftershock struck northern Venezuela early Monday, causing renewed panic among residents and disrupting ongoing rescue efforts five days after devastating earthquakes. The tremor, measured by the United States Geological Survey, shook the capital, Caracas, and the port city of La Guaira, where rescue crews continue to search for survivors.
Colombia's geological survey reported the aftershock's magnitude at 5.1. While Jorge Rodríguez, leader of the Venezuelan National Assembly, stated there were no immediate reports of new damage, the event sent residents fleeing into the streets from makeshift shelters. Search operations at a collapsed apartment building in San Bernardino were temporarily suspended.
The initial back-to-back earthquakes, measuring magnitude 7.2 and 7.5, have resulted in at least 1,450 reported deaths, 3,150 injuries, and nearly 800 damaged buildings. Tens of thousands remain missing, and millions lack basic necessities. Looting has occurred in La Guaira, with some residents expressing frustration over the slow pace of aid.
International teams, including 2,700 search-and-rescue personnel from 24 nations, are assisting in the recovery. The UN migration agency estimates up to 6.76 million people could be affected. The United States announced it was doubling its aid package to $300 million to provide emergency medical care, food, water, sanitation, and shelter.