Venezuela was struck by two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, within one minute of each other on Wednesday evening. The quakes caused buildings to collapse, particularly in the capital city of Caracas, and triggered widespread damage. Authorities have declared a state of emergency as rescue efforts begin. Initial reports suggest a potentially high number of casualties, with estimates reaching as high as 100,000. These shallow-depth earthquakes are among the strongest ever recorded in the region, making them particularly destructive. The close succession of the tremors has complicated rescue operations and heightened fears of further collapses. The full extent of the damage and the final casualty count remain unknown.