Venezuela earthquake search continues as death toll reaches 188

Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, leaving at least 188 dead and 1,520 injured, with search teams racing against time to find survivors amid widespread destruction.

Rescue and volunteer efforts

Volunteers have joined official rescue teams, especially in Caracas neighborhoods like San Bernardino, where three buildings collapsed. "Tratando de apoyar a los que realmente lo necesitan, sobre todo a las personas de La Guaira que la están pasando terrible. No están teniendo allá las autoridades competentes," said volunteer Susana Ospino, 19 Source: eldiado. In Altamira and Los Palos Grandes, evacuations continue due to falling façades. The government has set up shelters and received donations of food and water. Despite constant aftershocks, some residents in less affected areas have returned home.

Damage and government response

La Guaira has been declared ground zero by acting President Delcy Rodríguez, who visited with Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello and Parliament President Jorge Rodríguez. "Esperamos recuperar la mayor cantidad de personas con vida. Hemos solicitado ayuda internacional, ya están por aterrizar los primeros rescatistas que llegan de República Dominicana y en las próximas llegarán del resto de los países," she said Source: infobae. Official figures report 346 structures affected, 250 buildings damaged, 8 hospitals evacuated, 2,927 families impacted, 157 people missing, and 200 trapped. The Maiquetía international airport remains inoperative.