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The United States Department of State has announced the deployment of the USA-2 international urban search and rescue team from the Los Angeles County Fire Department to Venezuela, in response to a series of powerful earthquakes that struck the South American nation. The decision to send the team follows the magnitude 7.5 earthquake that occurred in the early morning hours on Sunday, followed by a magnitude 7.2 earthquake later in the day.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquakes’ epicenters were located in the northern Andean region of Venezuela, with the capital city of Caracas and surrounding areas experiencing significant shaking. The tremors reportedly caused widespread damage to infrastructure, as well as triggering landslides and power outages.
“We urge all parties to prioritize search and rescue operations and provide critical aid to those affected by these devastating earthquakes,” said a U.S. State Department spokesperson in a statement. “The activation of the USA-2 team marks an important step in our continued commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to those in need.”
The USA-2 team, consisting of highly trained personnel from the Los Angeles County Fire Department, will be dispatched to Venezuela on short notice. The team has extensive experience in responding to disaster scenarios, with past deployments including the 2010 Haiti earthquake and the 2011 Japanese tsunami.
Upon arrival, the team will work closely with local authorities, international organizations, and other responders to support search and rescue efforts. They will utilize specialized equipment, including search dogs, technical rescue gear, and communication tools, to help locate and provide aid to those trapped under debris.
Venezuelan officials have reported multiple fatalities and injuries resulting from the earthquakes, with rescue operations ongoing. The international community has pledged support to the crisis-stricken nation, with numerous countries and organizations offering disaster relief aid.
In a separate statement, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro expressed gratitude for the U.S. response, saying, “The solidarity of the international community is crucial in these moments of great need, and we appreciate the decision of the U.S. to deploy its search and rescue team.”
The deployment of the USA-2 team marks a significant moment in the response efforts to the Venezuelan earthquakes, underscoring the U.S. commitment to providing humanitarian aid in times of crisis.