health
Strong aftershock terrifies Venezuelans days after devastating twin quakes
Caracas and La Guaira affected by 4.6-magnitude tremor as death toll passes 1,700 and humanitarian crisis grows
TL;DR
- A 4.6 magnitude aftershock rattled northern Venezuela, including the capital Caracas and the port city of La Guaira.
- The aftershock caused panic among residents who had already experienced deadly twin earthquakes days earlier.
- Rescue efforts continue for the 1,719 confirmed dead, with tens of thousands missing and a significant humanitarian crisis developing.
- The UN is providing 10,000 body bags, anticipating a higher death toll than officially reported.
- International aid is arriving, with US Marines repairing a port for supply delivery and 27 countries sending rescuers.
- Displaced families are seeking refuge in parks and public squares as many homes have been damaged or destroyed.
- Looting has occurred in La Guaira, and authorities have temporarily barred international journalists from collapse zones.
- The earthquakes have exacerbated Venezuela's existing economic crisis, impacting infrastructure and public services.