Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodriguez announced a state of emergency on Wednesday after two strong earthquakes struck back-to-back, triggering nearly two dozen aftershocks that toppled buildings in the capital city of Caracas and other parts of the country.
Rodriguez made the announcement on state television, standing alongside her brother Jorge — who serves as head of the national assembly — and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello. She expressed her sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives in the disaster, though she did not reveal how many people were killed or injured.
Rodriguez also confirmed that Simon Bolivar Airport in Maiquetia, located near Caracas, has been closed due to damage caused by the earthquakes.
