Rescue efforts are underway in Venezuela following a series of powerful earthquakes that have caused widespread destruction and loss of life. The tremors, which occurred overnight, are reported to be the most severe the country has experienced in over a century.
As of now, the death toll has reached at least 188, with thousands more injured. This number is expected to climb as rescue operations continue. International correspondent Andreina Fermin reported from Caracas, highlighting the chaotic situation on the ground.
In the Los Palos Grandes neighborhood, two buildings collapsed, trapping individuals beneath the rubble. Rescuers are currently trying to locate four people believed to be alive and communicating from under the debris. Fermin noted the urgency of the situation, stating, "The situation here is very chaotic. The people are doing long lines to get gas, doing long lines to get into supermarkets and the pharmacies everywhere to try to find supplies, to get gasoline, and try to find the people that are missing." Over 7,000 individuals are currently unaccounted for across the nation.
The La Guaira State has been identified as the hardest-hit area, with more than 20 buildings reported to have collapsed. Rescue teams are overwhelmed and have restricted access to the area until they can safely assist those trapped.
In response to the disaster, Venezuela's main airport has been closed, and evacuation orders have been issued in some regions, extending over 1,000 miles from the capital. International aid is on the way, including assistance from the United Nations and search and rescue teams from the United States.
The U.S. government has committed to sending resources, including airlift support and $150 million in immediate funding for local relief organizations. A statement from the State Department emphasized the U.S.'s dedication to aiding Venezuela in its recovery from this catastrophic event.
Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR-2 News (source).
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