Venezuela was struck by two powerful earthquakes in quick succession on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction in the capital, Caracas, and prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency amid fears of heavy casualties.
According to the US Geological Survey, a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck near San Felipe, approximately 284 kilometres west of Caracas, at 22:04 GMT. It was followed almost immediately by a 7.5-magnitude quake centred near Yumare, around 293 kilometres west of the capital.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared a nationwide state of emergency as authorities worked to assess the scale of the disaster. She did not provide an immediate estimate of casualties or injuries.
The US Geological Survey warned that the death toll could range between 10,000 and 100,000, based on preliminary impact assessments.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said emergency services had been fully mobilised to carry out search and rescue operations.
“We have buildings, homes and houses which have collapsed, and we are taking care of things with everything we have available in terms of security and civil assistance,” Cabello said on state television.
He added that the Altamira district of Caracas was facing an “alarming situation,” with several buildings reported to have collapsed.