Venezuelan citizens are conducting their own search and rescue operations in the wake of two devastating earthquakes. They report a scarcity of government rescue teams in the hardest-hit areas near La Guaira.
The death toll has climbed to at least 920, with over 51,000 people reported missing. The first 72 hours are critical for finding survivors. Authorities have restricted access to La Guaira, the epicenter, citing chaos and traffic disruptions.
An international aid effort is accelerating. Rescue teams from Mexico, the United States, Colombia, and other nations are arriving to assist. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez stated the government is mounting a full response during these critical hours.
Families are digging through rubble themselves, pleading for heavy machinery. The disaster poses a significant challenge for the government amid long-standing economic turmoil.
The International Organization for Migration estimates up to 6.76 million people could be affected. Destruction was amplified by two successive shallow quakes.
Reports of looting for basic supplies and traffic hampering search efforts have emerged. Over 861 international volunteers are on the ground, with more search-and-rescue teams en route.