News Desk - Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela’s north-central region within seconds of each other, shaking Caracas and causing buildings to collapse. Authorities said the disaster affected several states and prompted the closure of Maiquetía airport as a precaution.

The first quake was followed by a stronger one almost immediately, intensifying the panic in the capital and surrounding areas. Residents rushed into the streets as emergency crews began searching damaged buildings and assessing structural risks. Reports said at least 32 people were killed, with many more injured and the toll likely to rise as rescue operations continued.

Rodríguez said the quakes were followed by around 20 aftershocks, which increased concern for already weakened structures. The state of emergency gives the government wider room to coordinate rescue, medical help, and damage assessment across affected regions. Aid promises also began coming in as Venezuela confronted a major national crisis.

The earthquakes have left Venezuela dealing with a broad emergency, from collapsed buildings in Caracas to transport disruption at Maiquetía airport. With aftershocks still a threat, the focus now is on rescuing survivors, treating the injured, and stabilizing damaged areas.