Rescuers in Venezuela are using heavy machinery and their bare hands in a desperate effort to save survivors of twin earthquakes that have killed at least 235 people, injured thousands, and flattened scores of buildings. The earthquakes, the strongest in over a century, struck west of Caracas, prompting interim president Delcy Rodriguez to declare a state of emergency.
Rescue Efforts Intensify
National Assembly chief Jorge Rodriguez reported that more than 200 people are trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings. Workers at one site used sledgehammers to break through debris, calling for 'absolute silence' to hear any survivors. Health Minister Carlos Alvarado confirmed that the death toll has risen to at least 235, with around 4,300 people injured.
International Aid Arrives
International rescue teams from El Salvador, Switzerland, and Mexico have arrived to assist Venezuela, along with a senior American military official overseeing US relief efforts. The United States has pledged $150 million in aid, deploying two warships, transport planes, and helicopters. Other nations, including China, India, Brazil, and Iran, have also offered assistance.
Desperate Search for Loved Ones
In La Guaira, one of the worst-hit areas, residents like Amparo del Giudice are digging through mounds of concrete with their bare hands in search of missing family members. The situation is dire, with reports of a young girl dying after crying out for help for hours as onlookers could do nothing.
Global Response and Challenges Ahead
The global community has rallied to support Venezuela, with offers of help pouring in from around the world. However, the relief efforts face significant challenges, including the closure of Caracas' main international airport in La Guaira due to serious damage. The death toll is expected to rise, as similar earthquakes in Haiti and Kashmir resulted in hundreds of thousands of fatalities.
