At least 164 people have been killed and 971 others injured after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, causing widespread destruction and prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez said the earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck within 40 seconds of each other on Wednesday evening. The quakes were described as the most powerful to hit the South American nation in more than a century.
La Guaira, north of the capital Caracas, was among the hardest-hit areas, suffering extensive structural damage that led authorities to declare it a disaster zone. Rescue workers continued searching through the rubble on Thursday, with officials warning that the death toll could rise.
In Caracas, residents fled into the streets as buildings shook violently. Power outages, communication disruptions and damage to roads and public infrastructure were reported across the capital. Authorities also suspended metro and rail services, closed schools and restricted parts of the country’s transport network while emergency assessments continued.
Several aftershocks were reported following the disaster, raising fears of further damage and complicating rescue efforts.
Rodríguez announced emergency measures, including plans to support affected communities, while appealing for assistance as authorities work to restore essential services and assess the full extent of the destruction.
