Search and rescue operations for victims of the consecutive strong earthquakes that struck Venezuela may take months rather than weeks, according to an International Rescue Committee (IRC) official. Elinor Raikes, vice president and head of program delivery at IRC, stated that the organization is currently exploring alternative methods to expedite the distribution of aid and essential relief goods following the widespread destruction caused by the twin tremors.
Infrastructure Challenges Hinder Aid Delivery
Raikes acknowledged that delivering aid poses a significant challenge due to the current state of Venezuela's infrastructure. The country's main airport was damaged in the quakes, making it extremely difficult to bring in supplies. In the coming days, IRC teams will focus on providing basic necessities such as food, clean water, and temporary shelter for affected residents, as well as delivering medical equipment to local health facilities.
Hospitals in Crisis
Many hospitals in the country are experiencing severe shortages of critical medical supplies. Two old hospitals in Caracas and La Guaira collapsed entirely due to the force of the earthquakes. The situation remains dire as healthcare facilities struggle to cope with the influx of injured patients.
Survivors Rescued from Rubble
Two days after the disaster, survivors were still being rescued from the rubble in Caraballeda, a town in the state of La Guaira that was among the hardest hit. One individual was successfully pulled from a collapsed six-story building where many others perished. The rescue efforts continue as teams work tirelessly to find any remaining survivors.
