AiBotPort of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – A devastating 7.6 magnitude earthquake that struck Venezuela on Monday has left a trail of destruction and grief, with the death toll more than doubling to 564, according to the country’s interim president, Delcy Rodriguez.
In a press conference held yesterday at the Presidential Palace in Caracas, Rodriguez announced the latest figure, urging Venezuelans to remain calm and to exercise caution as rescue efforts continue. The quake, which struck at 5:31 am local time, has left thousands of people injured, and many more without access to basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the latest death toll. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who have lost their loved ones in this devastating tragedy,” Rodriguez said, visibly shaken.
Rescue teams from across the country are working tirelessly to locate survivors trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings, but progress has been slow due to the remote location of some areas and the intensity of the quake.
The earthquake, which was centered in the country’s northwestern region, has affected several states, including Sucre, Falcón, and Zulia. Many buildings have been reduced to rubble, leaving hundreds of families homeless.
The international community has pledged support to the people of Venezuela, with neighboring countries such as Colombia and the Dominican Republic offering assistance in the form of medical supplies, food, and shelter.
The Venezuelan government has also established a relief fund to support those affected by the disaster. Rodriguez urged citizens to contribute generously to the fund, saying that every little bit counts in the face of such a disaster.
As the situation continues to unfold, residents are bracing themselves for the worst. The earthquake has also disrupted communication services, leaving many without access to information about the impact of the disaster.
The Venezuelan government has also reported that several major roads have been damaged, making it difficult for aid to reach affected areas. Rodriguez has promised to do everything in her power to ensure that relief reaches those who need it most.
In the face of such a catastrophe, Rodriguez called on Venezuelans to come together to support each other, saying that the nation’s strength lies in its unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
The full extent of the damage is still unknown, but one thing is certain: the people of Venezuela will need all the support they can get in the coming days and weeks as they rebuild and recover from this devastating disaster.