- A powerful double earthquake, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, struck Venezuela on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction west of the capital, Caracas.
- The tremors have resulted in at least 235 confirmed deaths, 4,300 injuries, and nearly 50,000 people reported missing, prompting interim president Delcy Rodriguez to declare a state of emergency.
- The coastal state of La Guaira, located near Caracas, was among the hardest hit, with satellite images revealing extensive damage and over 250 structures either damaged or destroyed, including the main international airport.
- Search and rescue operations are continuing, with hundreds still feared trapped under rubble, while the International Federation of the Red Cross reported critical damage to its headquarters, impacting aid efforts.
- International aid has been pledged by countries including the US and UK, as the US Geological Survey estimates a 44 per cent probability that fatalities could exceed 10,000.
IN FULL
