Magnitude-4.1 aftershock rattles central Venezuela, heightening seismic concerns

Caracas, June 27 (IANS) The Venezuelan Foundation for Seismological Research (Funvisis) reported on Saturday that a magnitude-4.1 earthquake was felt across the central region of the South American country, further unsettling a population already on edge following two devastating quakes earlier this week.

The state seismological agency said the epicentre of the latest tremor was located approximately 35 km west of La Guaira, a key port city along the central coast that has been declared a disaster zone after sustaining severe damage from Wednesday’s two powerful earthquakes.

The agency reported that the quake occurred at a shallow depth of 5 km, which typically amplifies ground shaking and increases the potential for structural damage.

Residents in Caracas and surrounding areas reported feeling the tremor, with many rushing out of buildings in fear of further collapse. The quake comes just days after the region was struck by two significant seismic events on Wednesday that caused widespread destruction, including collapsed buildings, landslides and casualties.

Officials have been struggling to coordinate relief efforts, as rescue teams work tirelessly to reach affected communities in coastal and mountainous regions.

The Funvisis report noted that while Saturday’s tremor was relatively moderate in magnitude, its shallow depth and proximity to already vulnerable infrastructure have raised serious concerns among engineers and disaster management officials. Aftershocks are common following major seismic events, and experts have warned that additional tremors could further destabilise structures already weakened by the earlier quakes.

Local authorities have urged residents in high-risk areas to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols. Emergency services have been placed on high alert, and teams have been deployed to inspect critical infrastructure, including hospitals, bridges and power lines. The government has also appealed for international assistance as the scale of the disaster becomes clearer.

Seismologists continue to monitor the region closely, with Funvisis maintaining round-the-clock surveillance. The agency has called on the public to stay informed through official channels and avoid spreading unverified information that could cause panic.

–IANS

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