The Venezuelan government declared a state of emergency on Wednesday after powerful earthquakes struck the country, causing damage to key infrastructure and prompting widespread safety measures, according to media reports.

Venezuelan Interim President Delcy Rodriguez announced the emergency declaration in a television address, urging citizens to remain calm and follow official instructions.

According to Rodriguez, around 20 aftershocks were felt after the two strong earthquakes. She said the country's main international airport in Maiquetia had been closed due to earthquake damage, with metro and rail services also suspended.

Rodriguez expressed condolences to the families of the victims but did not provide an official death toll or casualty figures.