Thousands are feared dead after two major earthquakes struck Venezuela, with the second shock having a magnitude of 7.5 and being the largest since 1900.

The quakes hit around 6pm Wednesday evening, causing widespread panic across northern Venezuela, including in the capital Caracas. Over 164 people have been confirmed dead and more than 971 injured so far, according to interim president Delcy Rodríguez.

Rodríguez declared a state of emergency on national television, urging all doctors, nurses, and health workers to attend to the injured and prepare for recovery. More than 10,000 people are reported missing by their families on a dedicated website, leading to fears that the death toll could exceed 10,000.

The United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced immediate deployment of search and rescue teams, medical resources, and humanitarian assistance. President Trump pledged support in a Truth Social post.

Some Venezuelans spent the night on the streets due to aftershocks, with buildings collapsing during and after the tremors. The country's largest airport in Maiquetía was closed from serious damage.