At least 32 people were killed and 700 others were injured after two powerful earthquakes jolted Venezuela late Wednesday, the country's acting President Delcy Rodriguez said in an official update early Thursday.
Speaking in a televised address, Rodriguez declared a state of emergency and said at least 20 aftershocks were recorded after the devastating earthquakes which led to the collapse of buildings in several neighborhoods in the capital city of Caracas.
Rodriguez also announced the closure of the Maiquetia International Airport, the country's main airport on the central coast, after it sustained structural damage.
Rodriguez said that water supplies have been affected in several areas, including Miranda state and La Guaira state, and that the national emergency response system has been activated.
The preliminary toll of 32 deaths and 700 injuries did not include La Guaira state, as connectivity problems are currently affecting the area, she said.
She further noted the suspension of classes and non-essential activities nationwide for the week and called on Venezuelans to remain united. All doctors and nurses have been instructed to report to their respective medical centers and remain on standby.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported a magnitude 7.1 quake at 2204 GMT on Wednesday, followed just one minute later by an even stronger magnitude 7.5 tremor. Both struck near the coastal town of Moron, about 160 kilometers west of Caracas.
The quakes were shallow with a depth of 10 kilometers, which could intensify their destructive impact.
At least 32 dead, 700 injured in Venezuelan earthquakes: acting president
