Venezuela earthquakes: thousands feared dead amid massive destruction (VIDEOS)

Authorities have confirmed 164 deaths but that number is expected to rise significantly as hundreds of buildings have collapsed

Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela’s northern Caribbean coast on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction in Caracas and several other regions. The first quake had a magnitude of 7.2 and was followed less than a minute later by a stronger 7.5 tremor, triggering building collapses, infrastructure damage and a large-scale emergency response.

At least 164 people have been confirmed dead and 971 injured, Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodriguez, has said, according to AP.

Rescue teams are searching through rubble for survivors as aftershocks continue to shake the region.

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the epicenter was located off Venezuela’s northern coast near the city of Morón.

The earthquakes were felt across much of the country, as well as in neighboring Colombia and several Caribbean islands. More than 20 aftershocks have been recorded, prompting authorities to warn residents to remain vigilant.

The government has declared a nationwide state of emergency, deploying the armed forces, civil defense units and emergency services. Schools, public transport and some airports have been temporarily closed, while power, water and communications have been disrupted in several parts of the country.Simon Bolivar International Airport remains closed because of damage, while metro and rail services in Caracas are suspended.

The deadliest earthquake in Venezuela’s recent history struck in 1967, killing around 300 people and injuring some 1,600 in Caracas. Another earthquake in the country’s northeast in 1997 killed at least 81 people.