Venezuela Rocked by Devastating Earthquakes, 164 Confirmed Dead

At least 164 individuals have lost their lives and 971 others have sustained injuries following two strong earthquakes that hit Venezuela on Wednesday evening, according to Acting President Delcy Rodríguez.

The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, are among the most powerful to strike the country in over a century. These seismic events were felt across a wide region, with reports of evacuations as far away as Brazil's Amazon, approximately 1,700 kilometers from Caracas.

Rescue teams are currently deploying to the most affected areas to assist those trapped in the rubble. Rodríguez described La Guaira state as a disaster zone, highlighting the extensive damage and the number of collapsed buildings. Rescue operations are being prioritized in this region, where efforts are being made to locate and save individuals believed to be trapped.

Images broadcasted on television showed rescue workers using heavy machinery to clear debris, while residents searched for missing loved ones amidst the destruction. The situation in Caracas was chaotic, with many residents fleeing their homes in panic as buildings swayed and collapsed.

In the aftermath of the earthquakes, power outages and disrupted communications have added to the distress, especially for families with relatives abroad. The U.S. Geological Survey identified the first quake occurring off the Caribbean coast, west of Moron, at a depth of 22 kilometers, followed by a second quake just a minute later.

In response to the disaster, Rodríguez declared a state of emergency and announced the establishment of a $200 million reconstruction fund for affected hospitals and homes. Offers of international assistance have begun to arrive, with the U.S. Secretary of State confirming the deployment of search and rescue teams and medical aid.

As rescue operations continue, the Venezuelan government is appealing for additional resources from businesses to aid in recovery efforts. The situation remains critical, and authorities are working diligently to provide support and assistance to those impacted by this tragic event.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR-2 News (source).