Venezuela earthquakes kill at least 235; rescuers search for survivors

Rescuers in Venezuela are racing to search through rubble for survivors after two powerful earthquakes struck near the capital, Caracas, on Wednesday. The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported a magnitude 7.2 quake at a shallow depth of 20.3 km, followed seconds later by a more powerful 7.5 magnitude quake at just 10 km depth.

The death toll has reached at least 235, with more than 1,500 injured. Jorge Rodríguez, president of Venezuela's National Assembly, confirmed on Thursday that the number of victims continues to rise. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency. Several countries have pledged aid; the US promised $150 million (£113 million) and is sending transport ships and aircraft to support search and rescue teams.

The worst-hit area is the coastal city of La Guaira, where about 250 buildings were damaged or destroyed. BBC-verified footage shows a 10-storey hotel reduced to rubble. In Caracas, several buildings collapsed. Mayor Gustavo Duque of Chacao reported 11 deaths and 23 rescues at one collapsed building. Venezuela's main international airport in Maiquetía has been closed due to serious damage.

The earthquakes struck on a national holiday, meaning many people were at home. Aftershocks continue, with at least 30 recorded. The USGS warns that the death toll could rise significantly, estimating a 42% chance of over 10,000 deaths and a 33% chance of over 100,000, based on historical data.

This is the strongest earthquake to hit Venezuela since 1900. The last major quake in the capital was in 1967, killing 200. The quake was felt hundreds of kilometres away in Bogotá, Colombia. Aid is coming from the US, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Mexico, and Qatar.