Rescue efforts for earthquake survivors in Venezuela nearing deadline

Venezuela Earthquakes: Death Toll Rises as Search Efforts Continue

At least 920 people have been confirmed dead following two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on Wednesday. The twin quakes, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, caused widespread destruction in the coastal area around La Guaira. Authorities have restricted access to the affected area, requiring official permits for entry.

Rescuers are racing against time to locate those missing, with over 51,000 people still unaccounted for. A scarcity of government rescue teams has led to a reliance on local efforts, with many Venezuelans taking matters into their own hands by digging through rubble. Aid agencies have warned that the critical 72-hour survival window is rapidly closing.

Government officials have distributed food and water to survivors in La Guaira, but some residents report seeing limited state rescue team presence in the hardest-hit areas. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez has stated that her government is mounting a full response to the disaster, welcoming international rescuers and humanitarian aid.

The number of injured stands at over 3,300, with 243 people rescued so far. The International Organization for Migration estimates that up to 6.76 million people could be affected by the disaster, including two million in Caracas alone. Experts attribute the severity of the destruction to the quick succession of shallow quakes.

Venezuelan authorities have reported receiving assistance from volunteers from various countries, including Mexico, the US, El Salvador, Switzerland, and Colombia. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing updates expected as more information becomes available.

Source: Al Jazeera