At least 32 dead and 700 injured after powerful twin tremors

At least 32 people died and more than 700 people were injured after consecutive strong earthquakes in Venezuela.

A magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck about 160 km (100 miles) west of Caracas, followed by a magnitude 7.5 tremor less than a minute later, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

The USGS said the death toll would likely be in the thousands and likely exceed 10,000.

Venezuelan Interim President Delcy Rodriguez called for unity in his speech on state television. “This is a real tragedy. We hereby send our message of solidarity and once again express our condolences and support to the families who lost their loved ones in these difficult hours.

“We are currently working hard on rescue operations to save the lives God has allowed us to save.”

In a post on Truth Social, Donald Trump said: “The United States is ready, willing and able to help! I have instructed all agencies of our government to prepare to act quickly. We will be there for our great new friends.”