Eyewitnesses in Venezuela’s capital Caracas have reported smoke rising from key military installations, including the La Carlota military airbase and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, following a series of loud explosions heard across the city in the early hours of Saturday.
According to multiple accounts shared on social media, several explosions were heard across different parts of Caracas, particularly near heavily guarded military zones. Residents described seeing bright flashes in the sky, hearing air raid sirens, and observing low-flying aircraft near La Carlota and Fort Tiuna, two of the most strategically important military facilities in the country.
Smoke seen at La Carlota and Fuerte Tiuna
Witnesses specifically reported smoke emerging from within or near the perimeters of La Carlota Air Base and the Fuerte Tiuna complex, raising concerns about potential strikes or internal military activity. Both installations play a central role in Venezuela’s defence infrastructure and are located within densely populated parts of the capital.
As of now, no official confirmation has been issued by the Venezuelan government or military authorities regarding the source of the smoke or the explosions.
Power outages and heightened tension
Following the reported blasts, several neighbourhoods in southern Caracas experienced power outages, further fuelling speculation about damage to infrastructure or targeted activity near military zones.
The incidents come against the backdrop of escalating tensions between Venezuela and the United States, including recent US sanctions, military pressure, and reported maritime strikes in the Caribbean. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has repeatedly accused Washington of attempting to destabilise his government, though he has remained guarded when questioned about recent alleged attacks on Venezuelan soil.
Aviation restrictions add to concerns
Shortly after reports of explosions surfaced, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a NOTAM banning US aircraft from operating at all altitudes over Venezuelan airspace from January 3. Flight-tracking data shows no commercial aircraft currently flying over Venezuela, suggesting airlines are actively avoiding the region due to security risks.
What remains unclear
- The exact cause of the explosions
- Whether the incidents were the result of external strikes, internal military activity, or accidents
- The extent of damage, if any, at La Carlota or Fuerte Tiuna
- Whether the Venezuelan government will issue an official statement
Until authorities provide clarity, the situation in Caracas remains tense and fluid, with eyewitness reports pointing to a serious security incident involving core military installations in the capital.
