The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that hit Venezuela has surged to over 1,400, as rescue efforts intensify in the affected northern regions. Venezuelan authorities report thousands injured and tens of thousands still missing after the quakes struck on Wednesday evening, leaving a trail of devastation in their wake.
Measured at magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, the earthquakes hit areas such as La Guaira and Caracas within a brief span, causing buildings to collapse and residents to flee for safety. Jorge Rodríguez, president of Venezuela’s National Assembly, confirmed that the disaster has claimed at least 1,430 lives, with approximately 3,200 people injured and over 3,100 rendered homeless.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with the grim task of locating the nearly 68,900 people reported missing by their families. In severely affected regions, rescuers and local residents are using heavy machinery, shovels, and even bare hands to sift through the debris. Amidst the tragedy, there was a glimmer of hope when an 11-year-old boy was found alive in a collapsed building in Caraballeda.
The United Nations has assessed the damage at an estimated $6.7 billion, which equates to about 6% of Venezuela’s GDP. This estimate primarily covers the destruction of homes and infrastructure, though broader economic impacts remain uncalculated. In response to the disaster, international aid has begun pouring in from countries including the United States, Mexico, Brazil, France, the Netherlands, Türkiye, and the United Kingdom, with the US coordinating flights, medical support, and search-and-rescue operations.
More than 14,000 military and police personnel have been dispatched to maintain order and assist in relief efforts in the hardest-hit areas, although access remains limited due to safety concerns. As time is of the essence, international organizations like the United Nations and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are calling for sustained global support to help Venezuela overcome one of its most severe humanitarian crises in recent history.