Venezuela Earthquakes: 164 Dead, Over 1,000 Injured as Powerful Tremors Cause Widespread Destruction

Preliminary official estimates say powerful earthquakes have hit parts of Venezuela, killing at least 164 people and injuring more than 1,000. The powerful quakes hit in rapid succession, leaving a path of destruction: buildings were in ruins, essential infrastructure was crippled and thousands of residents fled their homes seeking shelter.

Search-and-rescue operations are ongoing around the clock, with rescue teams, emergency responders and volunteers dispatched to the worst-hit areas. Many are thought to still be trapped under rubble, and officials fear the death toll may rise.

Hospitals in some of the affected areas are said to be overwhelmed with injured people, and temporary shelters have been set up for displaced families. The quakes also cut off power supplies, communication networks and transport services, making relief efforts more difficult.

Government agencies in the affected areas have declared states of emergency and appealed for national and international aid to help with ongoing rescue and recovery work. Humanitarian organisations are working with local authorities to bring food, medical supplies and other essentials to survivors.

The disaster has prompted an outpouring of support from across the world, with a number of countries and international organisations expressing solidarity with Venezuela and offering aid as the country embarks on the long process of recovery.