Hundreds of aftershocks have been recorded across Venezuela following two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 that struck the country on Wednesday. The continuing tremors have made rescue and rehabilitation operations in affected areas increasingly hazardous, according to local reports.

The Foundation for Seismological Research in Venezuela has been regularly releasing data on new aftershocks, noting that most have magnitudes below 3 and are not felt by the general population. However, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded a 4.6 magnitude quake near the coast of Caracas on Thursday afternoon, which was widely felt but caused no new damage.

Experts explained that aftershocks are smaller tremors occurring after a main earthquake due to changes in stress along tectonic plates. The USGS added that shallow earthquakes are more likely to produce aftershocks, posing additional risks to ongoing rescue efforts.