At least 920 people have died and about 172 people are believed to be trapped in buildings collapsed by twin earthquakes that rocked Venezuela on Wednesday.
Venezuela’s National assembly head, Jorge Rodriguez, in a broadcast on State TV on Friday, said, the death toll had reached 920, with at least 172 people still believed to be trapped in the rubble.
The death toll has been on the rise after two earthquakes, 7.5- and 7.2-magnitude, hit the country in quick succession on Wednesday.
While rescue efforts are sustained, hundreds of buildings were collapsed as the earthquakes ripped through La Guaira state, Venezuela’s port town, and parts of Caracas, the capital of the South American country.
Mrs Rodríguez, who toured the affected areas on Thursday, declared La Guaira a “disaster zone,” saying “We are supporting the families and extend our solidarity.”
On Friday, Mrs Rodríguez said the rescue of dozens “brings us joy that they can embrace their families and loved ones.”
The international community, including the United Nations, American government and Catholic Pope, sympathised with Venezuela over the devastating earthquakes, promising support for the country.