Powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela in quick succession on Wednesday evening, killing at least 32 people and injuring 700, according to the nation’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez. The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes caused widespread damage and triggered a state of emergency in the country.

Rescue Efforts Underway

Rescue workers are searching for survivors in collapsed buildings, and emergency crews are working to reach devastated areas. The state of La Guaira has been described as a “disaster zone” and is the area hardest hit, with dozens of buildings collapsed and intensive rescue operations underway.

The earthquakes also damaged and closed Simón Bolívar International Airport near Caracas, the country’s main airport. Schools have been canceled, and subway and natural gas services in Caracas are not operating. The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the earthquakes were felt in several states, including Brazil’s Amazon region and Colombia’s Caribbean and northeast regions.

International Assistance

Offers of help have been made by various governments, including Argentina, Chile, Panama, and Uruguay. U.S. Secretary of State Rubio announced that the United States is deploying search and rescue teams, medical resources, and humanitarian assistance to Venezuela. Other countries, including Qatar, Mexico, and El Salvador, have also sent rescue personnel and aid.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.