Photo source, Getty Images
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Two powerful earthquakes in a short span have caused extensive damage to buildings in Venezuela.
The US Geological Survey recorded the magnitudes of the first and second quakes as 7.2 and 7.5, respectively. The second, more powerful tremor struck just 39 seconds after the first.
These earthquakes occurred after 6 p.m. local time in the western part of Caracas, the capital, prompting residents to rush outdoors.
Authorities are currently gathering further information on human and material losses resulting from the earthquakes.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has declared a state of emergency following the quakes.
President Rodríguez also announced the closure of the country’s main international airport due to extensive damage caused by the earthquakes.
Earlier footage showed dust rising from the airport and people fleeing the area.
Delcy Rodríguez has been leading the country since President Nicolas Maduro was detained by the United States.
Photo source, Getty Images
The earthquakes have caused significant human and economic damage. The US Geological Survey (USGS) indicated a 44 percent likelihood that the death toll could exceed 10,000.
Since the day of the earthquakes was a national holiday in Venezuela, it is believed that many people were at home during the tremors.
Photo source, Getty Images
Officials reported that the earthquake disrupted electricity and internet services. The tremors were also felt as far as the neighboring Colombian capital.
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