Time is quickly running out to rescue any survivors trapped under the debris following the devastating earthquake in Venezuela, with the death toll steadily rising. Recent reports indicate that over 1,700 individuals have lost their lives in the double quake that struck last week, while approximately 69,000 people remain unaccounted for.
President Delcy Rodríguez has declared this natural disaster as the most severe in Venezuela’s history, prompting a growing humanitarian crisis as thousands are left homeless in the aftermath of the quakes. With makeshift camps emerging in Caracas, the country, already facing economic and political challenges, now confronts an estimated $6.7 billion cost to its economy.
A 4.6 magnitude tremor struck near Caraballeda on Venezuela’s coast, further complicating the situation. The critical 72-hour window post-disaster is pivotal for rescue operations, and the ability to provide sustenance like food and water can extend survival chances.
Concerns are mounting over the government’s capacity to handle the extensive care needed for the injured and displaced population. Temporary camps are being set up to shelter those who lost their homes, as many are forced to seek refuge in the streets following the destruction of high-rise buildings.
The Red Cross has raised alarms about the dire conditions in La Guaira, where essential services like water and electricity are scarce, affecting nearly all infrastructure in the area. Meanwhile, Venezuela’s armed forces are overseeing aid distribution and security measures, with military convoys controlling major routes and guarding against looting in affected areas.
The public health crisis exacerbated by the earthquakes is further compounded by exposure to harsh weather conditions for those now homeless. The World Health Organisation has identified critical shortcomings in the healthcare system post-disaster, highlighting risks of disease outbreaks due to disrupted services and challenges in tracking missing persons.