Desk : The death toll from the devastating twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela has climbed to nearly 1,500, as rescue teams continue intensive search operations in the worst-affected areas. Authorities said thousands of people have been injured, while many others remain missing, raising fears that the number of fatalities could increase further.
The powerful earthquakes caused widespread destruction across several regions, flattening residential buildings, damaging roads and bridges, and disrupting electricity, water supply and communication networks. Thousands of families have been displaced and are now living in temporary shelters.
Emergency response teams, assisted by international rescue personnel, are using heavy machinery, sniffer dogs and specialized equipment to search through the rubble. However, officials have acknowledged that the chances of finding more survivors are diminishing with each passing day, although rescue efforts are continuing around the clock.
The Venezuelan government has declared a state of emergency in the worst-hit regions and appealed for national and international support. Relief agencies are providing food, drinking water, medical assistance and temporary accommodation to those affected by the disaster.
Several countries and humanitarian organisations have sent rescue teams, medical personnel and emergency supplies to assist Venezuela in its relief and recovery operations. Authorities have begun assessing the extent of the damage as efforts gradually shift from rescue to rehabilitation and reconstruction.