with extensive destruction near the capital, Caracas. The United States Geological Survey reported a magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquake striking west of the capital on Wednesday evening. The second 7.5-magnitude quake was Venezuela's most powerful since 1900.

The state of La Guaira was hit especially hard. Residents spent the night searching for missing relatives amid collapsed buildings, with no electricity in the coastal city of Catia La Mar. A 22-story building in Caracas's Altamira neighborhood was completely destroyed as volunteers climbed over rubble calling out names. The Maiquetia International Airport was closed due to serious structural damage.

International aid was quickly offered—France pledged 85 rescuers, Spain 54 army searchers, and the US Secretary of State announced immediate deployment of search and rescue teams, medical resources, and humanitarian assistance. China, India, and Brazil also offered help.

The tremors struck at depths of 22 and 10 kilometers, and were felt as far away as Bogotá, Colombia, where alarms sounded and buildings were evacuated. Colombia's seismological network received over 200 tremor reports and warned that aftershocks may follow. (Bssnews)