Venezuela earthquakes: frantic search continues, 235 dead

Rescue workers and residents across northern Venezuela are digging through rubble more than a day after the country was struck by its most powerful earthquake in over a century. At least 235 people have been killed and authorities fear the toll could rise significantly, with thousands reported missing and more than 4,000 injured after magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 quakes hit less than 40 seconds apart on Wednesday evening near the capital, Caracas.

The coastal region of La Guaira, home to the country’s main airport, suffered some of the heaviest damage as rows of apartment blocks were reduced to rubble. The UN’s humanitarian agency, Ocha, said more than 100 buildings collapsed in La Guaira alone, including the Ritasol Palace and the seafront Eduard’s Hotel.

Acting president Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency and announced a $200m reconstruction fund for damaged hospitals and homes, while asking businesses to provide heavy construction equipment. "We hope to rescue as many living people as possible," she said.

Venezuela, La Guaira, Caracas

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