Back-to-back Venezuela Earthquakes Kill 164, Thousands More Feared Dead

VENEZUELA – Venezuela suffered two successive major earthquakes, causing devastating damage.

Officials and residents searched for survivors beneath collapsed buildings on Thursday, and rescue teams raced to northern areas hardest hit by a pair of powerful earthquakes that killed at least 164 people. Many more were feared dead.

The 7.2- and 7.5-magnitude earthquakes that struck Wednesday evening were among the strongest in Venezuela in more than a century, and were felt throughout the region.

Nearly 1,000 people were injured and thousands were reported missing across the country.

CARICOM, in a statement, expressing deep condolences over the tragic loss of life and the growing number of injuries.

CARICOM leaders say they stand in solidarity with the people of Venezuela during this time of immense grief, and offer prayers for a swift recovery to the injured and displaced.