The first tremor, a 7.1-magnitude earthquake, hit late on Wednesday, 24 June local time near the capital Caracas. A mere 39 seconds later, an even more powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck the South American nation.
Videos shared on social media captured vehicles shaking violently, smoke engulfing the streets and significant damage within buildings.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez confirmed at least 32 deaths and 700 injuries, according to local media reports.
The USGS previously warned that a high number of casualties and widespread damage were likely, with the disaster expected to have far-reaching consequences.
Reports indicate that people remain trapped beneath the rubble of buildings destroyed by the quakes, with devastated residents joining rescue workers in searching through the debris for survivors.
“It was horrible,” said Olky Barrero, a 56-year-old teacher, who had joined search efforts, according to the Guardian.
“We hope to God that there are as few victims as possible. We’re praying.”
Residents scrambled to flee as the earthquake rattled buildings, later recounting the harrowing experience.
“The building really shook from side to side. Unreal. The force was incredibly strong,” Roberto Damas said.
“We were walking and it was tossing us around. Everything in the apartment fell. Well, thank God we were able to get out.”
Residents of coastal areas in Venezuela also feared a tsunami threat following the earthquakes.
US Tsunami Warning Centres confirmed that the tsunami threat has now passed and there is no further danger.
