Death toll from powerful earthquake in Venezuela rises to 164

The death toll from the earthquake in Venezuela has risen to at least 164. In addition, the country's acting President Delcy Rodriguez has confirmed that 971 people have been injured so far.

However, considering the number of collapsed and damaged buildings, it is feared that the actual death toll could be much higher. Meanwhile, authorities are still carrying out rescue and search operations. Rodriguez said that at least 30 aftershocks have been felt so far after the two main earthquakes.

In an interview with Venezuelan state media, Rodriguez said that he was coordinating with the United Nations to send rescue teams. He was also working with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to create an initial fund of $200 million for the country's reconstruction efforts.

He also called on the private sector to provide heavy equipment to help with the rescue efforts.

Rodriguez urged Venezuelans to remain calm and "united," saying that residents of buildings that are safe should stay in their homes. He also said that a national prayer service would be held on Thursday (June 25) at 7 p.m. local time with the participation of all religious groups in the country.

A magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck near San Felipe, about 284 kilometers west of Caracas, at 6:04 p.m. local time on Wednesday (June 24). Just 40 seconds later, a stronger magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck near Yumar, about 293 kilometers west of the capital. Analysts have described the earthquake as the strongest in the country in more than 125 years.

CNN reports.