Tragic Earthquakes in Venezuela Claim Lives, Including Basque National

The Basque Government has expressed its deep sorrow following the death of a Basque-origin citizen, AS, in the recent earthquakes that struck Venezuela. This morning's tremors have caused significant devastation, prompting the government to remind families affected that support channels are available. According to reports, two powerful earthquakes shook Venezuela, with the first occurring at 6 PM yesterday, resulting in the tragic loss of AS, who was 65 years old and lived in the Caracas neighborhood of San Bernardino. Her husband, KO, was with her during the disaster and has since been rescued. AS was the granddaughter of José María Solabarrieta, who served as mayor of Ondarroa in Bizkaia during the Second Republic before fleeing to Venezuela. The Basque Government has actively reached out to Basque citizens currently in the affected areas, collaborating with local communities and the consulate in Bilbao to gather information and provide assistance. "All our support and solidarity from Euskadi to the Venezuelan people," emphasized the government in its statement. As of Thursday morning, Venezuelan interim president Delcy Rodríguez confirmed that the earthquakes have resulted in at least 164 fatalities and 971 injuries. Authorities noted that there were 30 aftershocks following the initial seismic events, raising concerns about ongoing safety in the region. A considerable emergency response effort is underway in Caracas to assist those impacted. The US National Tsunami Warning Center reported that the earthquakes qualified as a double seismic event, with both instances occurring within 39 seconds of each other. The main quake was identified with a magnitude of 7.5, based on updated assessments from the US Geological Survey (USGS). The epicenter was located about 300 kilometers east of Caracas in the municipality of Montalbán, with a depth of 132 kilometers, categorizing it as a shallow earthquake. In response to the tragedy, a reconstruction fund of $200 million has been established to aid in recovery efforts across the severely affected regions of Venezuela. Officials urge continued vigilance as aftershocks may pose further danger to the population already grappling with the aftermath of these devastating events. The last significant earthquake in Venezuela occurred in 2018, with a magnitude of 7.3 in Sucre state, impacting several neighboring countries as well. As the situation continues to develop, the Basque Government, alongside international agencies, remains committed to supporting victims and their families during this challenging time. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3 • Source 4