Death toll climbs after twin powerful earthquakes strike Venezuela

At least 164 people have been killed after two powerful earthquakes measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck Venezuela less than a minute apart on Wednesday evening, triggering widespread destruction and a massive search-and-rescue effort.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez said the coastal state of La Guaira, north of the capital Caracas, has been hardest hit, with dozens of buildings collapsing. Emergency crews continued searching through the rubble overnight as people trapped beneath the debris called for help.

The second quake was the strongest to hit Venezuela since 1900, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), which has warned the final death toll could rise significantly as rescue efforts continue.

The earthquakes caused extensive damage in several communities, with hundreds of people reported injured and authorities declaring a state of emergency in the affected areas.

Closer to home, the Barbados Meteorological Services issued an Earthquake Information Statement shortly after the quakes, advising that there was no tsunami threat to the island and no impacts were expected locally.

The agency said the earthquake had little or no tsunami-generating potential and urged the public to continue monitoring official updates.

BBC / Barbados TODAY