Venezuelans dig for earthquake survivors as 72-hour rescue window nears end | Earthquakes News
Death Toll Rises Following Earthquakes in Venezuela
At least 920 people are confirmed dead and more than 51,000 are reported missing following two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on Wednesday, June 24. The magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 quakes primarily affected the coastal region near La Guaira.
As search and rescue operations continue, rescuers are working against the clock, with concerns that the crucial 72-hour survival period is nearing its end. Local citizens, faced with a shortage of government rescue teams, have begun digging through the rubble by hand in hopes of finding survivors.
Authorities announced on Friday they would restrict access to the hardest-hit areas, requiring permits for entry to La Guaira. Details about who would be permitted remain scarce, further complicating relief efforts.
Despite government claims of a comprehensive response, reports from the field indicate a limited presence of official rescue teams in the areas most affected by the disasters. “Each person saved is a miracle,” said Jorge Rodriguez, president of the National Assembly, adding that transparency about the tragedy’s scope is essential.
Rescue operations have been complemented by food and water distributions to survivors. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez emphasized that the government is taking urgent steps to address the crisis and welcomed the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian aid.
Rodriguez noted that La Guaira has been “militarized” to facilitate recovery efforts, although residents have voiced frustration about inadequate support considering the scale of the disaster.
The earthquakes occurred in a country already grappling with a prolonged economic crisis, leading to skepticism regarding the government’s effectiveness.
The number of injured has surpassed 3,300, and authorities have confirmed the rescue of 243 individuals as of Friday afternoon. The International Organization for Migration estimates that as many as 6.76 million people could be affected by the disaster, with nearly two million in the capital, Caracas.
Experts attribute the extensive destruction to the rapid succession of the earthquakes. Loyce Pace, regional director for the Americas with the International Red Cross, noted that many individuals remain terrified to return to their homes.
Active international support is on the ground, with 861 volunteers from countries including Mexico, the United States, El Salvador, Switzerland, and Colombia currently aiding in recovery efforts. Additional teams are expected to join the relief operations soon.
