Last week, two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude that occurred in Venezuela resulted in the death toll reaching 1,943 people. This was reported by the BBC.
It is reported that tens of thousands of people in the country are in need of food, drinking water, and temporary shelter. So far, over 10,000 people have sustained various degrees of injuries, and thousands more are considered missing.
According to preliminary assessments based on NASA satellite data, approximately 58,870 buildings have been damaged or completely destroyed as a result of the natural disaster.
One of the hardest-hit areas is La Guaira, where local residents continue rescue efforts on their own. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), food shortages in the area have worsened, essential utilities have failed, and communication systems are almost completely disrupted.
"Tensions are rising among communities due to limited access to aid," the organization's statement said.
Daniela Armas, an 18-year-old saleswoman living in La Guaira, told AFP in an interview that some humanitarian aid is being distributed, but disputes among people frequently arise due to food shortages.
UNHCR announced that an initial $15 million is required to protect 30,000 people affected by the earthquake over the next six months and provide them with essential supplies and temporary shelter.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that the country's healthcare system is operating under "extreme pressure." According to WHO representative Christian Lindmeier, due to low vaccination rates, the risk of the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles and diphtheria is also increasing.
