The Venezuelan government declared a state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes caused widespread damage across several regions of the country, acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced.
Rodríguez announced the decision in a televised address, describing the situation as an incident with serious consequences. She provided no immediate details on the extent of the damage or the potential number of casualties, stressing that rescue operations are the current priority.
She added that authorities have suspended classes, halted rail services, and closed the international airport in the capital Caracas due to damage it sustained.
The United States Geological Survey measured the two earthquakes at magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, making them among the most powerful tremors recorded worldwide since the beginning of this year.
The second and stronger earthquake struck at a shallow depth of approximately 10 kilometres, raising fears of serious damage and casualties.
Rescue teams are continuing search operations for people potentially trapped under rubble.
Television footage showed a number of buildings collapsing in Caracas. Videos circulating on social media also showed damage to several buildings, including structures at Caracas airport. The footage also showed panicked travellers inside the airport attempting to reach safety as the ground shook and clouds of dust rose.