Venezuela has experienced the most powerful earthquake in recent times. Two strong tremors struck within the span of a single minute, causing severe damage to numerous buildings. Casualties are feared, and relief and rescue operations have been launched.

Venezuela’s interim leader declared a state of emergency after two massive earthquakes caused buildings to collapse in the capital and forced the closure of the country’s main airport. Widespread devastation is feared across the country. Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday, separated by an interval of about a minute, causing building collapses and damage in Caracas. These consecutive quakes—measuring 7.1 and 7.5 in magnitude—rank among the most powerful to hit the country in over a century, causing buildings in the capital, Caracas, to sway.

According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake had a magnitude of 7.1, with its epicenter located approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles) west of the Morón area on the country’s Caribbean coast. It struck at a depth of 13 kilometers. In the capital, Caracas, people rushed out of swaying buildings and homes. Officials did not immediately report any injuries or damage.