Venezuelans in La Guaira are searching for their loved ones by hand, as government machinery stands idle due to a lack of gasoline.

Earthquakes Devastate Coastal City

The recent earthquakes have destroyed much of the coastal city, leaving many without access to basic necessities. Despite being home to the world’s largest reported oil reserves, Venezuela is struggling to provide for its citizens in the aftermath of the disaster.

Opposition leader María Corina Machado has announced her return to Venezuela from exile in the US, citing the need to be with her fellow citizens during this time of crisis. Meanwhile, the government has defended its response to the earthquakes, with top lawmaker Jorge Rodríguez touting a new initiative to distribute volunteers according to established priorities.

International Aid and Community Efforts

International aid has been pouring in, with volunteers from across the country and abroad traveling to La Guaira to assist in the rescue efforts. Deivis Ramos, a local resident who lost his two daughters in the earthquakes, has been digging through the rubble of his wife’s parents’ apartment building, searching for their bodies.

Ramos expressed his gratitude for the help that has come from across the country and from abroad, saying, ‘We’re just asking for the strength to reach where they are and give them rest.’ The official death toll continues to rise, with at least 1,943 reported dead, although the actual number is believed to be much higher.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.