Rescue teams in Venezuela continue searching for survivors in areas damaged by two powerful earthquakes, more than a week after the disasters. Reports describe flattened buildings, fires, and widespread debris across northern states, including the port city of Catia La Mar, where rescuers and residents scour rubble for signs of life. While the chance of finding survivors is increasingly viewed as slim, crews sometimes still pull people from collapsed structures. One account highlights the rescue of a 43-year-old man after nearly eight days trapped in a collapsed shopping mall, following about 100 hours of international rescue work.
Alongside the ongoing search, officials face criticism over the government’s disaster response pace. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez rejects claims of slow or inadequate action, defending the government’s performance amid days of public debate. International attention also includes the United States responding to criticism.
Casualty figures reported by outlets citing government statements indicate the death toll is above 2,000, with more than 11,000 people reported wounded. As rescue operations shift toward recovery in some areas, teams continue working through rubble in hopes of finding remaining survivors.
