Search and rescue operations remain underway in Venezuela after two powerful earthquakes struck the coastal state of La Guaira, causing widespread destruction. Authorities say the number of casualties continues to rise as crews work through collapsed buildings and as more information becomes available from affected areas.
Quakes
The earthquakes occurred within minutes of each other and registered magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5. According to seismologists, the second quake was the strongest to hit Venezuela in roughly a century.
The tremors were felt across multiple regions, damaging homes, roads, and public infrastructure. In La Guaira, entire neighborhoods experienced structural collapses, complicating access for emergency responders.
Toll
As of the latest update, at least 920 people have been confirmed dead, with another 3,360 injured, according to figures reported by The Associated Press. Officials caution that these numbers are preliminary and could increase as rescue teams reach additional sites.
Earlier reports released Friday morning cited 589 deaths. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez acknowledged the increase and said authorities remain focused on locating survivors.
“We are going to rescue the people who are trapped. We are working tirelessly on this task,” Rodríguez said.
Thousands of people are still reported missing, raising concerns that the death toll may continue to climb.
Rescue
Rescue efforts have drawn support from both domestic and international teams. Crews from several countries have arrived to assist Venezuelan emergency services in searching through debris and stabilizing damaged structures.
The U.S. military is also participating in rescue operations, according to CNN. In addition, an 80-member search and rescue team from Fairfax County, Virginia, has been deployed, along with six trained dogs. The team includes three doctors and three structural specialists.
Battalion Chief Robert Schoenberger said conditions vary significantly across the affected areas.
“Every structure is different, and just because it’s in one country doesn’t mean all the buildings are built the same,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Schoenberger said his team is prepared after years of specialized training.
Survivors
While the scale of destruction is significant, rescuers have reported multiple successful rescues. Dozens of people have been pulled from the rubble alive.
In one case highlighted by the Associated Press, a woman was found trapped beneath a concrete slab with only her foot visible. Rescue teams were able to extract her alive, drawing hope for families still waiting for news.
“It brings us joy that they can embrace their families and loved ones,” Rodríguez said.
Families
For many residents, uncertainty remains the hardest part. Families continue to search for missing relatives, visiting shelters and hospitals for information.
Dayana Delgado, whose 8-year-old son is missing, said she is still waiting for answers.
“I want to know where my child is, if he’s trapped or in a shelter,” she said.
Displacement
Beyond the immediate loss of life, thousands of residents have been displaced. CNN reported that many families have nowhere to return after their homes were destroyed or deemed unsafe.
Temporary shelters are filling quickly, and access to basic services remains limited in some areas. Authorities say providing housing and restoring infrastructure will be part of the longer-term recovery effort.
Outlook
Emergency officials stress that the coming days remain critical. As rescue operations continue and assessments expand, authorities expect further updates on casualties and damage.
For now, the focus remains on finding survivors, supporting displaced families, and stabilizing affected communities as Venezuela begins the early stages of recovery.
FAQs
Where did the Venezuela earthquakes occur?
The earthquakes heavily affected La Guaira and surrounding regions.
How strong were the earthquakes?
They measured magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5.
How many deaths have been reported?
At least 920 deaths have been confirmed so far.
Are international teams assisting?
Yes, multiple countries including the U.S. are helping with rescues.
Is the death toll expected to rise?
Yes, many people are still missing and searches continue.
