Twin quakes rock Venezuela, killing 32 and injuring hundreds

Venezuela has declared a state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes struck the country on Wednesday, killing at least 32 people and injuring more than 700.

The quakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, hit near the western town of Yamure and sent strong tremors across much of the country, including the capital, Caracas.

It is one of the deadliest natural disasters to hit the region in recent years. Authorities reported collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and widespread destruction, particularly in La Guaira state, which officials described as a disaster zone.

Rescue teams continued searching through rubble for survivors as emergency crews worked around the clock.

The government has closed Simon Bolivar International Airport after it suffered structural damage. The tremors were felt as far away as northern Brazil, prompting evacuations in several cities.