The Venezuelan government has announced a package of measures to assist those affected and revive economic activity in the areas hit by the earthquakes.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the initial 7.2-magnitude earthquake was followed within seconds by a stronger 7.5-magnitude tremor. Both struck at shallow depths, increasing the extent of the destruction.

Interim President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency and said that around 100 aftershocks have been recorded since the two main earthquakes struck.