Arabic version: زلازل فنزويلا تترك أكثر من 58000 مبنى مدمرًا
Preliminary analysis of satellite data suggests that more than 58,000 buildings may have been damaged and destroyed by the twin earthquakes that hit Venezuela last week. The quakes, which occurred last Wednesday, measured magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, resulting in at least 1,943 fatalities and over 10,571 injuries. Tens of thousands are reported missing, trapped under the rubble. According to The Guardian, the UN migration agency estimates that up to 6.8 million people could be affected by the disasters and will require essential services such as shelter, water, sanitation, healthcare, and essential relief items.
In the aftermath, Jorge Rodríguez, president of the National Assembly, reported that 855 buildings had been damaged, with 189 “total collapses.” However, a rapid assessment from Oregon State University, utilizing satellite data from NASA and the European Space Agency, suggests that the destruction is far more extensive than these initial reports.
The World Health Organization has raised alarms about potential disease outbreaks due to the strain on Venezuela’s healthcare system, which is already under pressure. There are concerns about the increased risk of outbreaks of measles and diphtheria, as well as yellow fever, malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, particularly in areas like La Guaira where healthcare facilities are overwhelmed.
In response to the disaster, the Venezuelan government has militarized La Guaira and established a permit requirement for entry into the disaster zone. The U.S. military has been involved in reopening the city’s port, where makeshift morgues have been established for hundreds of unidentified cadavers. The UN has mobilized nearly 40 search and rescue teams from 27 countries, including over 2,000 personnel.
Public frustration is rising as families await news of their loved ones. Daniela Mangiafico, whose grandmother is missing, expressed her despair over the slow response to the crisis. Volunteer rescuer Nicolás Serrato highlighted the extensive damage, stating that very few buildings are unaffected and that immediate assistance is critical for those searching for survivors.
