Two strong earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale shook the area around Caracas, the capital of Venezuela. Early reports indicate at least 32 people dead and around 700 injured. The tremors caused building collapses, widespread transport disruptions and airport closures, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency.
Rescue teams continue searching for survivors beneath the rubble, with more than 20 aftershocks recorded. An initial tsunami warning was later lifted. The United States, Brazil, Ecuador, El Salvador, Turkey and Argentina have pledged to send humanitarian aid, while Venezuelan officials warn that the death toll could rise as rescue operations proceed.