Venezuela Earthquake Recovery Efforts Continue
The search for survivors in Venezuela following the recent twin earthquakes has entered its third day. Rescuers and families are diligently sifting through the debris of homes and apartments, driven by both urgency and hope.
A diverse group comprised of international teams, local families, and volunteers is utilizing tools ranging from shovels to heavy machinery, as well as their hands, to comb through La Guaira—the state that appears to have suffered the most. Experts suggest that the first 48 to 72 hours after such disasters are critical for locating survivors.
Sadly, the death toll continues to climb. Authorities confirmed that at least 1,430 people have died, while over 3,200 have sustained injuries. Reports indicate that nearly 68,900 individuals are still unaccounted for, as families search for answers.
Video footage captures residents navigating the chaos, calling out for their loved ones amid the wreckage. As temperatures rise, many have resorted to wearing masks due to worsening odors from the aftermath.
Amid the destruction, frustration is mounting among residents over the perceived lack of support and guidance from Venezuelan authorities. Reports highlight growing discontent as many seek assistance among the rubble.
“There’s a pile of bodies from last night. It’s a newborn baby,” shared Mileidy Romero, a participant in the recovery efforts. “As of 8pm yesterday, there were people alive underneath, but they didn’t try to rescue them. We found some bodies, but they didn’t even help us retrieve them. What are they waiting for?”
Another resident, Yeason Marcano, expressed mixed feelings about the involvement of search units. He noted some help but criticized the police and National Guard for their inaction.
“They came to eat arepas and take pictures to make it look like they were working,” Marcano said. “They didn’t dirty their uniforms like we did. We’ve been here for three days.”
Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, shared a brief moment of hope, announcing the rescue of an 11-year-old boy from the rubble. She emphasized the significance of every life saved during this crisis.
In terms of external support, U.S. State Department officials indicated that a Navy transport ship was stationed off the coast, ready to assist with airlifting survivors in need of hospital care. They remarked that time is of the essence in locating the injured.
Simón Bolívar International Airport, a critical infrastructure piece, was severely affected, with only one runway operational as military teams worked towards repairs.
The United States has pledged to send an 80-member search and rescue unit equipped with canines and tools. Teams from both Los Angeles and Miami are also en route to aid in the recovery efforts.
Visuals from the scene show rescue workers assisting vulnerable individuals, including children trapped under debris.
Pope Leo XIV voiced his support for Venezuela, offering prayers for the victims during a public reflection. In his statement, he expressed solidarity with those suffering from the aftermath of the natural disaster and highlighted the dedication of rescue teams working tirelessly.
“Our prayers are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this tragedy,” he said, calling for international community support for Venezuela during this challenging time.
