Back-to-back powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening, collapsing buildings across the capital, Caracas.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported a magnitude-7.1 quake west of Moron, followed one minute later by an even larger magnitude-7.5 tremor 16 kilometers southwest of the town.

Interim President Delcy Rodriguez declared a state of emergency and extended condolences to families of those killed, though she did not provide an official death toll.

The USGS warned that "high casualties and extensive damage are probable," with initial estimates projecting the death toll could range from 10,000 to 100,000.

The country's main air gateway,  Simon Bolivar International Airport in Maiquetia, sustained structural damage and has been closed.

Multiple airlines have canceled flights, with diverted aircraft seeking assistance in Colombia and other neighboring countries.