Powerful earthquakes have struck Japan and Venezuela
On the night of Wednesday 25 June, powerful earthquakes struck Japan and Venezuela.
An earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale was recorded in northern Japan. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the epicentre was located at a depth of 50 kilometres off the coast of Iwate Prefecture. The tremors were also felt in Tokyo, reports The Japan Times.
The strongest tremors were recorded in the town of Hashikami in Aomori Prefecture, where the earthquake reached the rare upper sixth level on the Japanese intensity scale. At this intensity, people are virtually unable to move, and unsecured furniture is overturned.
No tsunami warning was issued. A task force has been set up at the Office of the Prime Minister of Japan to respond to the aftermath of the disaster. Services on the Tohoku Shinkansen line were temporarily suspended, and some rail services in Iwate and Aomori prefectures remain restricted.
At least six people were injured as a result of the earthquake. The government also reported that no damage had been recorded at nuclear facilities.
Meanwhile, two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela less than a minute apart. The first quake had a magnitude of 7.2, whilst the second, stronger one, reached 7.5, according to NBC News.
According to the US Geological Survey, the epicentre of the first earthquake was near the town of San Felipe, approximately 160 kilometres west of Caracas. The second tremor was recorded 39 seconds later near the town of Yumare.
There was significant damage in Caracas. People fled their homes and offices en masse. In several districts of the capital, building walls collapsed, and rescue workers are continuing to clear the rubble.
Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, has declared a state of emergency. According to official figures, at least 32 people have died and over 700 have been injured. In the state of La Guaira, the situation has been described as catastrophic.
Due to extensive damage in Caracas, the airport has been temporarily closed. Schools have also been closed and non-essential activities suspended. According to the authorities, a further 20 aftershocks were recorded following the main tremors.
The US Geological Survey has warned of a high probability of a significantly higher death toll and widespread destruction.
US President Donald Trump has stated his readiness to provide assistance to Venezuela. He said that all US government agencies have been instructed to prepare promptly to respond.
