Rescue teams continue search for earthquake survivors in Venezuela's La Guaira

Rescue teams operating in Venezuela’s coastal La Guaira state announced Tuesday that they will continue searching for survivors of the magnitude‑6.6 earthquake that struck the region on Monday, despite the passage of several days and the dwindling likelihood of finding additional victims. The quake, centered near the city of La Guaira, caused widespread structural damage, triggered landslides, and left at least 42 people dead and dozens more injured, according to officials from the National Civil Protection Service.

Authorities from the National Guard, the Red Cross and local fire departments have been conducting systematic sweeps of collapsed buildings, tunnels and debris fields, employing sniffer dogs, thermal imaging equipment and manual probing. Governor Rafael Cáceres said the effort remains “a matter of life and dignity,” emphasizing that teams will not abandon any site until it is declared safe. International assistance, including technical support from neighboring Colombia and equipment donations from the United Nations, has bolstered the operation, though logistical challenges such as aftershocks and limited road access continue to hinder progress. The ongoing search underscores the authorities’ commitment to locate any remaining victims and provide relief to affected families.