Earthquake Death Toll Rises in Venezuela to 1,430

A devastating earthquake has left over 68,900 people missing in Venezuela’s hardest-hit state of La Guaira. Desperation grows as rescue efforts struggle to keep up with the massive scale of the disaster. Tensions are high, and frustration is palpable among Venezuelans who believe the government’s response is inadequate.

The death toll from Saturday’s two earthquakes has risen sharply to 1,430, with many more feared dead. Rescuers and civilians search for survivors on top of rubble and debris, often without access to vital equipment or assistance from authorities. The situation is dire, with bodies scattered everywhere and the stench of decomposition spreading.

Aid agencies say that every minute counts in these early hours after a disaster. The first 48 to 72 hours are crucial for finding alive survivors. But as rescue teams arrive from around the world, including Mexico, the US, Brazil, El Salvador, France, and others, it’s clear that more help is needed.

The government says over 14,000 military and police personnel are patrolling the area, but many Venezuelans feel they are not doing enough. Scenes of frustration and desperation abound as people block excavators and pull rescuers from their cabins. The lack of aid and assistance has led to widespread outrage among the affected population.

Source: https://apnews.com/article/earthquakes-venezuela-rescues-survivors-92a3d6c13c0f9af9c1bfb4ff6d041254