Venezuela is grappling with the aftermath of two powerful earthquakes that struck the country, leaving at least 164 people dead and nearly 1,000 injured, according to government officials.
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The twin quakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, hit within a short span of each other and are being described as among the strongest seismic events to affect the country in more than a century. The tremors triggered panic across several regions, causing extensive damage to buildings, roads, and public infrastructure.
Death Toll Rises After Powerful Earthquakes Devastate Venezuela
Authorities reported that at least 971 people sustained injuries, while rescue teams continue to search through damaged structures for survivors. Emergency response operations have been intensified in the worst-affected areas, where thousands of residents have been displaced.
The earthquakes also triggered landslides
La Guaira, a coastal state along the Caribbean Sea, suffered some of the heaviest destruction. Numerous residential and commercial buildings collapsed, prompting officials to declare parts of the region a disaster zone. Temporary shelters have been established to accommodate affected families.
The earthquakes also triggered landslides and disruptions to transportation networks, complicating rescue and relief efforts. Power outages and communication disruptions were reported in several locations following the disaster.
Government agencies, emergency services, and military personnel have been deployed to assist with rescue operations, distribute relief supplies, and restore essential services. Authorities have urged residents to remain alert due to the possibility of aftershocks.
Messages of solidarity and support have been received from several countries and international organizations as Venezuela continues to assess the scale of the destruction and humanitarian needs resulting from the disaster.
Officials warned that the casualty figure may rise further as search operations continue in affected regions and damage assessments are completed.