Chaos in Venezuela: Canadian Teacher Describes Earthquake Aftermath

Residents are digging through rubble with their bare hands and sleeping in parks as search efforts continue days after a pair of powerful earthquakes devastated parts of Venezuela. Heather McKay, a Canadian teacher from Toronto living in Caracas, described the chaotic scene following Wednesday's 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude tremors.

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It was like the ocean, almost just kind of doing this back and forth (motion).

"It was like the ocean, almost just kind of doing this back and forth (motion)," McKay told Global News, recalling the moment the first quake struck. She witnessed people fleeing buildings, with fire escapes crowded and "holes in so many apartment buildings." Her own apartment building sustained significant damage, with "huge holes in the bottom" and an entire wall missing near the staircase, forcing her to seek shelter with a colleague.

Authorities reported at least 920 deaths and over 51,000 people still unaccounted for. Many residents are too afraid to return to their damaged homes due to concerns about structural integrity and ongoing aftershocks. Access to La Guaira, the epicenter, has been restricted as rescue crews continue their work, supported by over 14,000 military and police personnel.

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There were just holes in so many apartment buildings. It was absolutely intense.

However, McKay noted that much of the rescue effort relies on ordinary citizens. "People are asking, ‘Do you have hammers? Do you have gloves? Do you have helmets?'" she said. "A lot of the rescue efforts have just been regular citizens wearing motorcycle helmets and digging with their hands." Many escaped with only the clothes they were wearing, facing the prospect of rain while sheltering outdoors in plazas and parks.

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My building has huge holes in the bottom. An entire wall is missing near the staircase.

Despite the devastation, McKay observed a strong sense of community. "Venezuelans are some of the most hardworking and kind people you will ever meet," she said. "Everyone is trying their best, but we need help." Aid organizations emphasize the critical nature of the initial 48 to 72 hours for survivor rescue, warning of a long road to recovery.

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People are asking, ‘Do you have hammers? Do you have gloves? Do you have helmets?'