Rescuers search for survivors after deadly Venezuela quakes

Rescue crews in Venezuela searched for survivors Wednesday after two powerful earthquakes killed at least 188 people, Al Jazeera reported. The disaster prompted a state of emergency, while the US Geological Survey said mass casualties were likely and damage was extensive.

Al Jazeera reported that at least 1,500 people were injured. The broadcaster also said thousands more were reported missing and injured as teams worked through damaged areas to find people trapped by the quakes.

Crews race through damaged areas

Rescue teams were working to locate survivors and recover bodies after the twin earthquakes struck the South American country, according to Al Jazeera. The broadcaster said the search was taking place amid widespread devastation, including in Caracas.

Al Jazeera correspondent Maria Alesia Sosa reported from the scene in Caracas, where the scale of the destruction was visible. The report did not give a final toll, and the number of missing people remained uncertain as search operations continued.

The quakes hit Venezuela on Wednesday, according to Al Jazeera. The broadcaster described both as powerful and said emergency crews were racing against time in the aftermath.

Emergency declared

Al Jazeera reported that Venezuela declared a state of emergency over the earthquakes. The measure came as authorities faced large numbers of dead, injured and missing people, along with extensive damage.

The US Geological Survey said mass casualties were likely and damage was extensive, according to Al Jazeera. That assessment underscored the risk that the death toll could rise as rescue teams reach more affected areas and recover bodies.

Al Jazeera reported the confirmed death toll at 188, with 1,500 injured, while also noting that thousands more were reported missing and injured. Rescue work continued as officials and emergency teams assessed the destruction left by the twin quakes.

This story draws on original reporting from Al Jazeera.