‘All we see is decay’: Covering the human toll of Venezuela’s earthquakes

Devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela's La Guaira region on June 24, leaving widespread destruction across coastal communities. The death toll has climbed steadily to over 4,300 individuals, while the United Nations estimates approximately 50,000 Venezuelans remain unaccounted for in the rubble. International rescue teams, including the Qatar International Search and Rescue Group and Syrian White Helmets, have deployed to assist in recovery operations amid challenging conditions.

Physical damage across the region is severe and extensive. Low-rise residential structures have collapsed entirely, with roofs compressed to ground level. Taller buildings have toppled sideways, and larger housing complexes have had their exterior walls stripped away, exposing interior spaces while the structures remain precariously balanced on damaged support columns. Debris litters roads throughout La Guaira and surrounding areas including Catia La Mar.

Families continue searching for missing relatives with limited government support. Janet Viana, a 72-year-old survivor, expressed frustration that authorities have not provided heavy machinery or assistance to recover bodies from collapsed structures, including her son. She reported that the government announced plans to demolish the building within days, leaving families uncertain whether they would recover remains before demolition.

Government officials have defended their response efforts. The governor of La Guaira stated that rescue operations were initiated immediately and credited workers with extracting over 6,000 people from ruins. The Venezuelan military has secured multiple sites, and authorities established aid stations distributing food, water, medical supplies, and equipment such as helmets and rescue tools. However, many residents reported undertaking rescue efforts independently without waiting for official assistance.