Venezuela Quakes Death Toll Passes 1,400; Thousands Still Missing

The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela last week has exceeded 1,400, officials confirmed Tuesday. Tens of thousands of people remain missing, raising fears that the final casualty count could rise sharply. The first quake, with a magnitude of 7.8, hit the northern coast near the capital, Caracas, early Friday. A second, 6.9-magnitude tremor struck the same region 12 hours later, toppling buildings already weakened by the initial shock. Rescue teams continue to search through rubble in the hardest-hit cities, including Cumana and Barcelona. However, damaged roads and disrupted communications have slowed efforts. The government has declared a state of emergency and requested international aid. Authorities warn that the number of missing, estimated at more than 30,000, includes people in remote areas that remain cut off. Survivors are in urgent need of food, water, and medical supplies.