Updated : Venezuela Earthquakes Kill At Least 188 As Massive Rescue Operation Continues
At least 188 people have been confirmed dead and more than 1500 others injured after two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude struck Venezuela within seconds of each other, causing widespread devastation across the country and triggering one of its worst seismic disasters in over a century.
Emergency crews continue searching through the rubble of collapsed apartment blocks, homes and public buildings, particularly in La Guaira and parts of Caracas, where officials believe many people remain trapped. Authorities warn the death toll is expected to rise as rescue teams reach severely damaged areas.
The Venezuelan government has declared a state of emergency, suspended classes, and mobilized military personnel, health workers and heavy equipment for rescue operations. Damage to key infrastructure, including the country's main airport and sections of the transport network, has complicated relief efforts.
The United States announced it is deploying search-and-rescue teams, medical resources and humanitarian assistance. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington would provide a "big, fast, effective" response, while several other countries have also offered emergency aid and rescue personnel.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) warned that the scale of destruction could result in significantly higher casualties, noting the powerful back-to-back quakes struck densely populated areas. Aftershocks continue to threaten damaged buildings, forcing thousands of residents to remain outdoors overnight.