More than 32 killed in Venezuela earthquakes

Two powerful earthquakes struck near Caracas, Venezuela, causing widespread destruction and triggering a major humanitarian crisis.

The first quake, measuring magnitude 7.2, hit approximately 100 miles west of Caracas, followed less than a minute later by an even more powerful magnitude 7.5 tremor.

Officials report 32 confirmed deaths and 700 injuries so far, though the United States Geological Survey warns the death toll likely reaches into the thousands and could exceed 10,000.

Over 10,000 people are reported missing according to a dedicated tracking website, as rescue teams search through rubble of collapsed buildings across the capital region.

Venezuelan interim president Delcy Rodríguez stated the casualty figures don’t include victims from hardest-hit areas, saying: ‘Dozens of buildings have collapsed, and we are currently carrying out very intense rescue efforts to save as many lives as God allows us to save.’

International aid is pouring in from neighboring countries, with Brazil, El Salvador, Argentina and Mexico all pledging rescue teams, medical personnel and essential supplies to support relief efforts.

Image Source: GHANAIAN TIMES