Venezuela earthquake LIVE: At least 164 dead, 971 injured in quakes, says Interim President Delcy Rodríguez

The Venezuela Earthquake has become one of the deadliest natural disasters to strike the South American nation in recent decades. Two powerful earthquakes measuring approximately 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude struck within less than a minute of each other, causing widespread destruction across multiple regions of the country. The quakes were felt far beyond Venezuela’s borders, triggering evacuations and emergency responses in neighboring areas.

Authorities described the seismic event as one of the strongest to hit Venezuela in more than a century. Buildings collapsed, roads cracked, power systems failed, and communication networks were disrupted in several affected regions.

Death Toll Climbs to 164

According to Interim President Delcy Rodríguez, at least 164 people have been confirmed dead while 971 others have suffered injuries. Officials cautioned that the numbers could continue rising as rescue teams reach heavily damaged areas and search through collapsed structures.

Initial reports had indicated significantly lower casualty figures, but authorities later revised the toll upward as more information became available from remote and severely affected locations. Rescue workers continue searching for survivors trapped beneath rubble, raising hopes that additional lives can still be saved.

Many hospitals are operating under emergency conditions as medical teams work around the clock to treat hundreds of injured residents.

Caracas and La Guaira Among Worst-Hit Areas

The capital city, Caracas, suffered extensive damage as buildings swayed violently and several structures partially or completely collapsed. Witnesses described scenes of panic as residents rushed into streets while dust clouds rose from damaged buildings.

Officials identified La Guaira as one of the hardest-hit regions. Delcy Rodríguez described the coastal state as a “disaster zone” after dozens of buildings reportedly collapsed. Authorities fear that many victims remain trapped beneath debris in the area.

Other regions also reported significant structural damage, road blockages, and disruptions to essential services.

Massive Rescue Operations Underway

Rescue teams have launched large-scale operations across the country.

Emergency personnel are using:

Heavy construction equipment
Search-and-rescue dogs
Thermal imaging devices
Power cutting tools
Medical evacuation units

Television footage showed rescuers working through piles of rubble while searching for survivors. Several dramatic rescues have already been reported, including children being pulled alive from collapsed buildings.

Authorities are prioritizing locations where survivors may still be trapped and have appealed for additional equipment to accelerate operations.