Five days after the earthquakes in Venezuela, the death toll rises to 1,700

Five days after Venezuela was struck by devastating earthquakes, search and rescue teams continue their work in La Guaira state, while thousands of people have been left homeless.

The death toll has surpassed 1,700, as hopes of pulling survivors from the rubble continue to fade. Rescue efforts have been focused mainly on La Guaira, the area that suffered the heaviest blows from the two powerful earthquakes.

An aftershock measuring 4.6 in magnitude has also spread panic in Caracas.

According to humanitarian agencies, the first 72 hours after a natural disaster are crucial for saving lives. However, there is still a possibility that survivors may be found if those trapped have had access to water and food.

At the same time, attention is increasingly shifting to the recovery phase. Thousands of families have been left without homes, while doubts remain about the government’s capacity, as it faces major economic difficulties, to cope with a relief operation that could last for years.