Venezuela: Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodrguez has declared a state of emergency after two powerful earthquakes struck the country, followed by around 20 aftershocks, causing extensive damage and the collapse of several buildings in Caracas and other areas.
According to Emirates News Agency, in a televised address, Rodrguez urged the public to remain calm and evacuate damaged buildings. She announced the closure of Sim³n Bolvar International Airport in Maiqueta, which serves the capital, after it sustained severe infrastructure damage. Metro and rail services were also suspended, while classes were cancelled in several affected areas.
The US Geological Survey reported that the country was struck by a magnitude 7.2 foreshock, followed 39 seconds later by a magnitude 7.5 mainshock. The epicentre was located west of the coastal town of Mor³n, about 168 kilometres west of Caracas, at a depth of 13 kilometres.
