Up to 100,000 feared dead in major Venezuela earthquakes

Strong earthquakes struck west of Venezuela’s capital on Wednesday (Thursday AEST), toppling buildings in Caracas, trapping people in the rubble and prompting scientists to warn of potentially heavy casualties and widespread destruction across the South American country.

A magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit about 160 kilometres west of Caracas, followed less than a minute later by a magnitude 7.5 tremor, according to the US Geological Survey.

“High casualties and extensive damage are probable, and the disaster is likely widespread,” the USGS said, initially estimating the death toll would most likely range from 10,000 to 100,000.

Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodriguez has declared a state of emergency․