At least 164 people have been confirmed dead and nearly 1,000 others injured following a pair of powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela, according to emergency officials.
Rescue crews continue to search through collapsed buildings and debris as authorities race to locate survivors in some of the hardest-hit areas. The twin quakes caused widespread destruction, damaging homes, businesses, roads, and critical infrastructure.
Emergency responders, military personnel, and volunteers have been deployed across affected regions to assist with search-and-rescue operations, provide medical care, and distribute emergency supplies to displaced residents.
Officials warn that the death toll could rise as teams gain access to heavily damaged areas and continue assessing the full extent of the disaster. Hospitals have been overwhelmed with injured victims, while temporary shelters have been established for those forced from their homes.
Government agencies have urged residents to remain alert for aftershocks and to follow safety guidance issued by emergency management officials.
Messages of support and condolences have poured in from leaders around the world as humanitarian organizations mobilize resources to aid recovery efforts.
The earthquakes rank among the deadliest natural disasters to strike Venezuela in recent years, leaving communities facing a long road to recovery.
