Two strong earthquakes struck Venezuela Wednesday evening, causing widespread damage and trapping people under rubble, particularly in the capital, Caracas. While official casualty figures remain unconfirmed, preliminary reports suggest potentially tens of thousands may have perished, according to US scientists. The acting president of Venezuela, Delcy Rodríguez, has declared a state of emergency nationwide and confirmed fatalities in a televised address. She announced the formation of a special task force to coordinate rescue and relief efforts, but did not disclose specific numbers of deaths or injuries. Witnesses report numerous buildings have collapsed, hindering rescue operations. The full extent of the devastation is still being assessed as authorities respond to the crisis.