Venezuela has been struck by two powerful earthquakes that killed at least 1,719 people and injured more than 5,000, according to official reports released Monday night. The quakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, hit the northern La Guaira state just 39 seconds apart, destroying around 800 buildings and leaving thousands missing. Rescue teams continue to work tirelessly to locate survivors trapped under the rubble.

Authorities described the disaster as the most catastrophic natural event in the country’s history. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez said over 25,000 emergency workers, police, and soldiers are assisting affected communities. Despite international aid arriving, hopes of finding survivors are fading as critical hours pass. A 21-year-old man was rescued alive after being trapped for more than 100 hours.

Reports indicate limited government presence in some of the hardest-hit areas, where residents are relying on local farmers and volunteers for essential supplies. A mild aftershock of magnitude 4.6 was felt Monday in Caracas and La Guaira, though no new damage was reported.