Not fewer than 900 people have now been confirmed dead after the powerful earthquake that struck Venezuela, with authorities warning that the casualty figure may rise further as rescue operations continue across affected areas.
The devastating earthquake, which hit several parts of the South American nation earlier this week, has left widespread destruction, forcing emergency responders to work nonstop in search of survivors trapped under collapsed buildings.
Thousands of residents have also been displaced following the disaster, with many communities suffering heavy damage to homes, roads and critical public infrastructure.
Government officials said rescue teams are still reaching several badly affected locations where communication and transportation have been severely disrupted.
Reports indicate that hundreds of people remain unaccounted for, raising fears that the death toll could increase significantly in the coming days.
The earthquake, said to have measured above 7.0 magnitude, triggered panic across major cities as buildings shook violently and many structures gave way within minutes.
Emergency workers, supported by volunteers, have continued digging through rubble in an effort to rescue victims believed to still be alive beneath destroyed structures.
Hospitals in several affected areas are reportedly overwhelmed as injured survivors continue arriving for urgent medical treatment.
International humanitarian organisations have started mobilising relief materials, while neighboring countries are offering support to assist rescue efforts.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain alert as experts warn that possible aftershocks could further worsen conditions in areas already devastated by the deadly earthquake.