- Rescuers pulled a woman alive from rubble after 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes struck Venezuela.
- At least 589 people have been killed and nearly 3,000 injured, according to acting President Delcy Rodríguez.
- Graciela Mora was pulled from under the rubble of a collapsed building in La Guaira, one of the most affected areas.
- The death toll is expected to rise significantly as search teams find more victims.
- Delcy Rodriguez vowed to save 'as many people as possible' as the death toll doubled.
- The powerful quakes, among the strongest in over a century, were felt across the region and caused widespread destruction.
- More than 100 buildings collapsed in La Guaira state, the area most impacted by the double earthquake.
- Nearly 3,000 people are injured, and many others are missing or still trapped beneath rubble.
- The United Nations said it is coordinating the deployment of urban search and rescue teams.
Rescuers pulled a woman alive from rubble after twin earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck Venezuela, leading to a death toll of at least 589 and nearly 3,000 injured. The quakes, among the strongest in over a century, caused widespread destruction, particularly in La Guaira, where over 100 buildings collapsed.1
In La Guaira, Graciela Mora was rescued with injuries, including a broken finger, after being trapped under a collapsed building. She recounted holding her friend's hand while waiting to be rescued, stating, “I didn’t want her to die alone.” The International Organization for Migration estimates that up to 6.8 million people have been affected by the quakes, with many still trapped and missing.3
The official death toll is expected to rise significantly as search teams continue their efforts. Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency, emphasizing the need for urgent aid. “Our mission is clear: save lives and rapidly deliver critical aid where it is most needed,” tweeted Hegseth, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Critics have pointed out that the government was unprepared for such a disaster, with Dr. Franklin Rodriguez stating that local hospitals are “completely overwhelmed.” The U.S. has pledged $150 million in aid to support relief operations, but many areas are still waiting for assistance.
As the situation unfolds, the Venezuelan government faces scrutiny over its response to the crisis, with many citizens expressing frustration over the lack of mobilization and support from authorities.
“Rescuers have successfully pulled a woman alive from the rubble following devastating earthquakes in Venezuela. The death toll has now surpassed 500, with officials racing to find more victims.”
The Guardian
