State of emergency declared after two major earthquakes hit Venezuela
Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday, killing at least 32 people and injuring 700, causing buildings to collapse near the capital Caracas.
Venezuela was hit by two strong earthquakes on Wednesday, resulting in significant destruction and casualties. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the first quake, with a magnitude of 7.2, struck about 160 kilometers (100 miles) west of the capital Caracas. Less than a minute later, a second, even stronger tremor of magnitude 7.5 followed.
The earthquakes killed at least 32 people and injured 700 others. Numerous buildings, especially in and around Caracas, collapsed into piles of shattered concrete and steel. Authorities immediately declared a state of emergency to coordinate rescue efforts and provide aid to the affected population.
This is one of the most severe natural disasters to hit Venezuela in recent years. Rescue teams are continuing to search for survivors under the rubble, while hospitals are overwhelmed with the injured. The international community has expressed condolences and offered support.
