AT LEAST 164 DEAD AFTER EARTHQUAKE STRIKES VENEZUELA

A major earthquake struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening, killing at least 164 people according to one report, whilst a separate account from authorities cited at least 188 deaths. The discrepancy reflects ongoing casualty assessments as rescue operations continue across affected areas. Recorded figures also indicate 1,520 injured and 157 missing persons, though one report suggested more than 30,000 people remain unaccounted for. Rescue workers have recovered bodies and survivors from collapsed buildings and rubble across multiple locations.

The earthquake represents Venezuela's most severe seismic event in approximately one century, according to reports. Residents described witnessing extensive structural damage, with large mounds of rubble covering streets and buildings throughout affected regions. The scale of destruction has overwhelmed local emergency services and rescue capacity in the immediate aftermath of the disaster. Authorities have mobilised response teams, though the full extent of damage to infrastructure and housing remains unclear.

International humanitarian assistance has been offered to Venezuela following the earthquake. The government has not yet issued a formal statement regarding international aid acceptance or specified which regions require the most urgent support. Search and rescue operations are continuing as teams work through rubble to locate survivors and recover victims. Officials have indicated that casualty figures may rise as assessment work progresses in outlying areas.