Earthquakes Kill at Least 1,400 in Northern Venezuela

Two earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude struck northern Venezuela's La Guaira state on Wednesday, killing 1,450 people according to the government report issued Sunday afternoon. More than 770 buildings collapsed and authorities treated over 3,100 injured people, many with crush injuries. Aftershocks of 4.2 and 4.5 magnitude hit Sunday morning, adding to the damage.

Rescue teams from the U.S. and France pulled a man and his son from rubble Sunday morning. More than 2,200 international rescue workers had arrived by Saturday, while over 14,000 Venezuelan military and police patrolled the state where access required special permits.

"It’s been incredibly hard work, but we’re going strong," said civilian rescuer Jason Mercano. " More than 50,000 people appeared in one non-governmental database as missing. The U.N. migration agency stated up to 6.8 million people may be affected.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, who took office in January after the U.S. capture of then-President Nicolás Maduro, faces the response amid prior economic challenges. The International Organization for Migration is coordinating with the government, United Nations and humanitarian groups.

"It is already clear that displacement will increase, as people seek safety," said Amy Pope, director general of the International Organization for Migration.