Two powerful earthquakes, magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, struck northern Venezuela within a minute of each other Wednesday night, killing at least 188 people and injuring 1,520, according to National Assembly Chief Jorge Rodriguez.
The coastal state of La Guaira suffered severe damage. Residents dug through debris with pickaxes and crowbars to reach loved ones trapped alive beneath collapsed buildings. Power outages forced many to sleep in the streets, and looting was reported at a local supermarket.
International rescue teams are mobilizing. The UN, Switzerland, Spain, France, Portugal, Mexico and others offered support. The U.S. military will provide a "big logistical role," said Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The U.S. is deeply involved in Venezuela after ousting President Nicolas Maduro in January.
The quakes were the strongest to hit Venezuela in 126 years. Tremors were felt in Colombia and Brazil. The international airport near La Guaira sustained serious damage and remains closed, complicating aid deliveries.