Efthymis Lekkas on the earthquake in Venezuela: Death toll ranges from 10,000 to 100,000 (video)

Efthymis Lekkas warns of a potential disaster with up to 100,000 deaths following the powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale in Venezuela.

Lekkas warns—Up to 100,000 dead

The president of the OASP, Efthymis Lekkas, referring to the two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale that struck Venezuela. Speaking to ERTnews, he emphasized that the true extent of the disaster has not yet been assessed, noting that a much more dramatic picture may emerge at first light.

“We still cannot imagine exactly what has happened,” he said, noting that initial estimates from international organizations point to the possibility of an extremely high number of victims.

The president of the OASP agreed with the initial estimates cited by Reuters and the U.S. Geological Survey, emphasizing that the death toll could range from 10,000 to 100,000, with a probability of around 50%. As he said, “We are dealing with a major disaster, and estimates of tens of thousands of deaths are possible and cannot be ruled out.”

The two faults – Why Disasters Are on the Rise

Analyzing the geological characteristics of the phenomenon, Efthymis Lekkas explained that the two powerful seismic tremors, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale, occurred just 39 seconds apart along major active faults in the northeastern extension of the Andes.

At the same time, he pointed out that in densely populated areas, a large percentage of buildings—which may reach as high as 75%, is particularly vulnerable, a fact that significantly increases the risk of widespread collapses.

As he explained, the two powerful earthquakes affected buildings differently, depending on their age, construction method, and structural integrity. The most severe damage was recorded in older stone and unreinforced structures, where cracks, plaster detachment, and partial wall collapses occurred. In contrast, newer buildings constructed in accordance with modern seismic codes performed significantly better, confirming the importance of seismic reinforcement in structures.