Venezuela earthquake kills 235 as survivors remain trapped under debris

Venezuela’s earthquake death toll rose to at least 235 on Thursday as rescue teams and residents continued searching for survivors trapped under collapsed buildings after two powerful earthquakes struck the country’s northern coast.

The twin earthquakes, measured at magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 by the United States Geological Survey, struck within less than a minute of each other on Wednesday night, causing widespread destruction across several regions.

Rescue efforts continue amid growing devastation

More than 1,500 people have been injured, while rescue operations remain difficult because of damaged infrastructure and limited resources. In several areas, residents joined search efforts as emergency teams struggled to reach trapped victims, reported Hindustan Times.

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In La Guaira, one of the worst-hit regions north of Caracas, residents listened helplessly as a young girl remained trapped beneath debris for hours.

"We need people..., military personnel, to come and help so we can get her out," said resident Dani Rizo, 48, per HT.

Local residents later said the girl died before rescuers could reach her.

Elsewhere in the state, voices could still be heard beneath the rubble of a collapsed building.

"They're still alive... There's nothing more we can do," said one resident, Antonio Bermudez, reported HT. "We don't have any tools. We have no way to help."

Hospitals struggle as aid arrives

Medical facilities have been overwhelmed by the number of casualties. Per a report by HT, a doctor at the Domingo Luciani Hospital said children were arriving without family members after being rescued.

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"Some children provide their names, while others arrive with identification tape on their arms," he said.

Interim president Delcy Rodriguez visited La Guaira after it was declared a disaster zone. International assistance has begun arriving, with several countries sending rescue specialists and aid teams.

The United States announced the deployment of ships, aircraft and emergency aid. "We have a whole-of-government response. It'll be big, it'll be fast, and it'll be effective," said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The earthquake, the strongest to hit Venezuela in 126 years, was also felt in Colombia and Brazil, while many residents in Caracas spent the night outdoors fearing further aftershocks.

FAQs:

How many people have died in the Venezuela earthquake?

At least 235 people have died according to the latest official figures.

How strong were the earthquakes in Venezuela?

The two earthquakes measured magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 and struck within a minute of each other.