A touching story has come to light amid the tragedy caused by the powerful earthquakes that hit Venezuela.

Andrea Bello, the wife of Venezuelan footballer Héctor Bello, lost her life after protecting their young daughter during the collapse of the building they were in.

According to the footballer's account and media reports, the child managed to survive thanks to the mother's sacrifice.

In a touching message published on social media, Héctor Bello wrote that one day he will tell their daughter that her mother gave her life to save her.

"I will tell her the story of how you saved her and how you gave your life for our daughter. You were a brave woman who never abandoned her, even when you took your last breath," he wrote.

The footballer announced that their daughter and her aunt are in the hospital out of danger, while he is dealing with the loss of his wife.

Meanwhile, rescue teams continue searching in areas affected by the two earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela. According to authorities, at least 589 deaths have been confirmed so far and around 2,980 injured, while thousands of people are still missing.

Foreign nationals have also been reported among the victims, including four Spaniards, one Portuguese and two Brazilians, while the international community has begun to offer assistance to cope with the disaster.