Strong earthquakes struck west of Venezuela’s capital on Wednesday afternoon, damaging buildings in Caracas and prompting warnings of widespread destruction across the South American country.
A magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit about 100 miles west of Caracas, followed less than a minute later by an even bigger magnitude 7.5 tremor, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS).
“High casualties and extensive damage are probable and the disaster is likely widespread,” the USGS said, initially estimating the death toll would most likely range from 10,000 to 100,000.
Authorities did not immediately provide official estimates for deaths or injuries.
Earthquakes strike on public holiday
