Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, was engulfed in an unusual deep red and orange glow at sunset following the country’s devastating earthquakes, as experts linked the phenomenon to massive amounts of dust released by collapsed buildings and debris.
Local media reported that the rare atmospheric event occurred days after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, with residents describing the sky as “apocalyptic.” Scientists said suspended dust particles scattered sunlight during sunset, intensifying red and orange wavelengths and creating the striking visual effect.
Meteorologists said similar phenomena can occur after major natural disasters when large quantities of dust and fine particles remain suspended in the atmosphere, altering the way sunlight is refracted during sunrise and sunset.
The dramatic skies followed one of Venezuela’s deadliest natural disasters in decades. Authorities have reported hundreds of aftershocks since the twin earthquakes, although most have caused little additional damage.
The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude and occurring just 39 seconds apart, struck Venezuela last week, killing more than 1,700 people, injuring thousands and destroying homes, roads and public infrastructure. Rescue teams from dozens of countries continue search and recovery operations as thousands of displaced families remain in temporary shelters.
The United States Geological Survey has warned there remains a 44% probability that the final death toll could exceed 10,000 because many communities remain inaccessible and rescue operations are ongoing. International humanitarian agencies have also cautioned that damaged infrastructure, aftershocks and shortages of essential supplies continue to complicate relief efforts across the affected regions.
