Caracas: Two powerful earthquakes that occurred in Venezuela early Thursday morning spread destruction everywhere. These tremors of 7.2 and 7.5 magnitudes reduced many cities to rubble. Life stopped in a moment. So far, 188 people have been confirmed dead, and more than 1500 people are injured. Thousands of people are still reported missing. Relief teams are searching day and night for lives buried under the debris.
Where was the most destruction?
The coastal state of La Guaira, north of the capital Caracas, has suffered the most devastation. Many buildings here collapsed like a deck of cards. Roads were damaged and phone and internet services were disrupted. According to the US Geological Survey, the first shock was of magnitude 7.2. About a minute later, a second and more dangerous shock of 7.5 magnitude occurred.
Has the search operation started yet?
Many families spent the night in open fields, parks and streets. In the video on social media, it is seen that the rescue teams are working hard for hours to rescue the people buried under the debris.
A woman burst out in anger. She said, “The administration is sleeping, heavy machines did not arrive on time. Under compulsion, we are removing the debris with our hands.” Children and elderly people of many houses are still missing.
Did even hospitals and airports not get left?
The earthquake has also broken the back of hospitals and essential services. La Guaira’s international airport had to be closed due to damage. Due to this, the help and rescue teams coming from outside are trapped. Electricity, gas and transport are at a standstill in many areas.
How many countries come forward to help?
After this terrible accident, the world has stood with Venezuela. America has announced it will send relief goods, rescue teams and money. Other countries and international organisations are also ready to send medicines, relief materials and rescue teams. The Venezuelan government has appealed to the world to help the people in trouble.
Will the death toll increase further?
The fears of relief agencies are justified. Debris is still to be removed in many areas. In such a situation, the number of deaths and injured may increase. The government has imposed an emergency and asked to speed up the relief work. Temporary camps are being built for thousands of homeless people.
