Two earthquakes have hit Venezuela – how bad is the damage?

The full extent of the damage is still to be assessed, but photos and videos show debris strewn across the streets while rescuers dig through the rubble of collapsed buildings to find survivors.

In some images, citizens can be heard asking for help.

President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency, allowing extra resources and personnel to be used for recovery efforts.

In his address to the nation, he expressed his “immediate condolences” to those who died in the earthquake, although he did not specify how many people died.

Chacao Mayor Gustavo Duque Saez told reporters that at least two buildings in this municipality, which forms part of the larger metropolitan area of ​​Caracas, have completely collapsed.

He said 18 people were rescued alive and more than 500 emergency workers were trying to get more residents out of the area.

The country’s interior ministry urged people to leave their homes due to construction stability and the possibility of gas lines being affected.

Fuel supplies to the city were disrupted and internet outages were also reported.

Venezuela’s main international airport, Maiquetía airport, located on the outskirts of Caracas, was also closed due to earthquake damage.

Speaking to Venezuelans on state television, Rodríguez said that metro and train services were stopped throughout the country.

He also added that classes will be suspended for the rest of the week.