Jamaica Pledges Solidarity After Twin Venezuela Earthquakes Kill at Least 188

Rescue crews in Venezuela continued searching rubble on Thursday after two powerful earthquakes killed at least 188 people and left more than 1,500 injured, with many others still missing or trapped beneath collapsed structures. Officials expect the death toll to rise as operations press on. Jamaica is among several countries that have pledged support to the South American nation.

The tremors struck on Wednesday less than a minute apart—a magnitude 7.2 quake followed 39 seconds later by a magnitude 7.5 event. The first shock sent residents rushing to safety; the second, the strongest recorded in the country in more than a century, deepened panic as buildings crumbled and people were buried in debris.

The United Nations said more than 100 buildings collapsed in the capital, Caracas, and in La Guaira state. Venezuela's government deployed the army and heavy machinery to the worst-affected areas. Rescue work stretched into the evening, with applause greeting teams as they pulled survivors from beneath the ruins.

The Jamaican government extended condolences to the people of Venezuela. Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness said Jamaica stands in full solidarity with Venezuela at this time. He added that Jamaica is ready to support relief and recovery efforts in whatever way possible and is praying for Venezuela's strength and a swift and full recovery. The opposition also expressed condolences to the Venezuelan people following the disaster.

Trinidad and Tobago, Mexico, and Qatar have also pledged to support Venezuela. The United States has deployed rescue teams and promised to provide 150 million dollars in aid. Help continues to reach the country from the United Nations, among others.