The death toll from the devastating earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela has climbed to 920, while about 50,000 people are still unaccounted for, according to the country’s authorities.

The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, hit within minutes of each other on Wednesday night, causing widespread destruction across several communities. The stronger of the two tremors is considered the most powerful to strike Venezuela in more than 100 years.

Speaking on Friday, National Assembly leader Jorge Rodríguez said 3,360 people had been injured, while at least 172 victims remain trapped beneath collapsed buildings. He added that 383 structures were damaged during the disaster.

La Guaira, the area worst affected by the earthquakes, has been placed under military control to support rescue efforts and maintain order. Authorities have urged residents and volunteers to avoid overcrowding major roads, saying emergency vehicles need clear access to transport the injured and continue search operations.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced that emergency supplies, including food, water and medical items, are being distributed from a central relief hub in Caracas. Officials are also inspecting buildings that suffered structural damage to determine whether they remain safe.

Rescue teams are continuing to search for survivors despite difficult conditions. Juan José Ramírez, the government’s sectoral vice president for public works and services, said crews are using specialised equipment to break through concrete slabs in the hope of reaching those still trapped.

However, ongoing aftershocks and limited access to heavy machinery have slowed operations in several locations. In some communities, residents have resorted to using basic tools such as pickaxes and shovels to help clear debris and search for survivors.

Authorities expect the number of fatalities to increase as emergency workers continue combing through collapsed buildings across the affected region.

The U.S. Geological Survey warned that the final death toll could reach several thousand, with a significant possibility that it may exceed 10,000.

Relief operations have also been complicated by damage to Maiquetía Simón Bolívar International Airport, which has been temporarily closed following the earthquakes.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States was prepared to provide assistance, promising a rapid and coordinated response to support Venezuela’s recovery efforts.

Meanwhile, families searching for loved ones have been uploading photographs and details of missing relatives to an online missing persons platform as hopes of finding more survivors continue to fade.