Two major, closely spaced earthquakes rocked northern Venezuela, toppling buildings and sending residents into the streets to search for family members and survivors. The acting president said at least 32 people had been killed and around 700 injured in the initial toll, with officials warning the numbers were likely to increase as rescue operations continued.

Damage was reported as severe in coastal areas north of Caracas, with collapsed structures and debris complicating searches. Emergency responders and local residents worked amid unstable buildings while authorities urged people to remain outside due to the risk of additional shocks.

As the crisis unfolded, the government and emergency services focused on getting help into the hardest-hit zones quickly. At the same time, international countries and agencies offered rescue personnel, equipment, and other forms of assistance, as promises of aid arrived from abroad.