Venezuelans in La Guaira are manually searching for their friends and family in the rubble of downed buildings, as government machinery stands idle due to a lack of gasoline.

Earthquakes Devastate Coastal City

The devastating earthquakes that struck the coastal city of La Guaira have left many without access to basic necessities, and the government’s response has been widely criticized. Despite being home to the world’s largest reported oil reserves, Venezuela is struggling to provide fuel for rescue efforts.

Citizens are using pickaxes, shovels, and their bare hands to break apart the collapsed high-rise apartment buildings, with some expressing frustration and desperation. The smell of decay fills the humid air, and the search for loved ones continues.

International Aid and Community Efforts

International aid has been pouring in, with volunteers from neighboring states and countries arriving to assist in the rescue efforts. Donations of water and other essential supplies have been helpful, but the lack of heavy machinery and equipment has hindered the search process.

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. He expressed 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.’

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.