Caracas:Venezuela is in a state of devastation after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked the country, killing at least 164 people and injuring 971 others. Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez gave the casualty numbers early Thursday as rescue teams searched for survivors in the widespread destruction.Authorities fear the number of the dead could rise further as emergency workers sift through collapsed buildings and damaged structures in affected areas. Large-scale rescue and relief efforts are ongoing and many areas are still being assessed for casualties and damage.
Over 30 aftershocks shake regioncreating an added challenge for residents and rescue teams. ” , updating on the situation.Media reports said the acting president is coordinating with the United Nations to facilitate the deployment of international rescue personnel and humanitarian assistance.
In an interview with Venezuela's state broadcaster, Rodriguez also revealed that discussions are underway with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding the creation of an emergency reconstruction fund worth USD 200 million to support recovery efforts.
Twin earthquakes trigger massive destructionPowerful tremors shook Venezuela in the early hours of Thursday, causing widespread destruction in several regions, including the capital city of Caracas. Buildings were reduced to rubble in some areas and critical infrastructure was heavily damaged. Pictures from the affected areas showed rescue workers racing against time to find survivors under the collapsed structures. The series of tremors are being described as the most powerful seismic events to hit the South American nation in almost a century.
Interior Minister Cabello asks people to stay outsideInterior Minister Diosdado Cabello said the tremors were felt in several Venezuelan states. He said the Altamira district of Caracas was heavily damaged, with several homes and buildings collapsing.He urged residents to stay outside, as aftershocks could cause more structural damage.
Cabello also said some people may have been injured in the disaster and appealed to drivers to keep roads clear for ambulances and emergency response teams.
“We know that some people might be desperate, but we are following protocols to activate help and rescue efforts to assist those who need it most,” Cabello said on state television. "Be especially careful with children and elderly, call each other and make sure nobody is hurt."