Two powerful earthquakes have caused widespread destruction in Venezuela. At least 32 people have been confirmed dead, but the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) warns that the final death toll could be significantly higher as rescue efforts continue.
Two earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale, respectively, struck on Wednesday evening local time. The quakes occurred less than a minute apart and affected, among other areas, the capital city of Caracas and the state of La Guaira. Buildings collapsed, roads were damaged, and rescue workers are still searching for people in the rubble, reports Reuters.
USGS Warns of Very High Death Toll
Acting President of Venezuela Delcy Rodríguez reports that at least 32 people have died and about 700 have been injured. She also says that the death toll is expected to rise as rescue teams reach the hardest-hit areas.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) estimates that the disaster could be significantly worse and warns that thousands of people may have died. In addition, more than 20 aftershocks have been recorded, which is hampering rescue efforts.
Sweden is monitoring developments
Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard comments on what happened to SVT:
– We have received terrible news this morning about two earthquakes in Venezuela and the devastation they have caused. The extent of the damage is still unclear, but we already know that it is severe. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs currently has no information regarding any affected Swedish citizens. Our thoughts are with the Venezuelan people, those affected, and their families during this difficult time.
International aid is on the way
Several countries, including the United States, Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, have offered Venezuela disaster relief as rescue efforts continue in the hardest-hit areas.
