A strong earthquake that struck Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, has left residents shaken, forcing many people to abandon their homes and remain outdoors amid fears of further seismic activity.
According to reports, anxiety continues to grip the city as residents worry about possible aftershocks. Many have chosen not to return to their homes despite the initial tremor having passed.
Speaking to Al Jazeera by telephone, Caracas-based journalist Norris Argotte Soto described scenes of fear and uncertainty across the capital.
He said the earthquake triggered widespread panic, with people rushing out of buildings and gathering in open areas for safety. According to Soto, residents remain concerned that additional tremors could occur at any moment.
The journalist also reported visible damage to buildings throughout the city. He noted that his own residential building had developed significant cracks following the quake. In addition, power and internet services were disrupted in parts of the city, making communication difficult for many residents.
Soto said debris and shattered glass could be seen scattered across affected areas. He added that several structures in the Chacao municipality suffered serious damage, while some buildings reportedly collapsed completely.
As emergency crews assess the situation, large numbers of people continue to stay on the streets rather than return indoors. Fear of aftershocks remains one of the main reasons residents are avoiding damaged buildings.
Authorities are continuing to evaluate the extent of the destruction and monitor the situation as rescue and recovery efforts move forward.
