Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela near the coastal area of Moron, about 160 km west of the capital Caracas, occurring within 39 seconds of each other.
According to the US Geological Survey, the first quake measured 7.2 magnitude at a depth of 26 km, followed by a 7.5 magnitude quake at a depth of 10 km.
The twin tremors caused widespread damage across much of the country, with hundreds of buildings reported to have collapsed and cracks opening up on roads in several places.
The La Guaira region near Caracas has been declared a disaster zone after suffering severe impact. In Caracas’ Altamira area, a 22-storey building reportedly collapsed completely.
Authorities said the death toll has risen to 235, with 4,300 people injured. Rescue operations are ongoing, and officials fear the toll could climb further due to multiple apartment blocks collapsing. The Simon Bolivar International Airport has been closed after sustaining heavy damage.
