Over 30-hour rescue operation offers hope in Venezuela after earthquake

In Catia La Mar, Venezuela, a complex rescue operation has surpassed 30 hours as teams work tirelessly to extract Hernán Gil, a man trapped for more than six days beneath the rubble of a collapsed building. The earthquakes, registering magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, struck Venezuela last Wednesday, leaving a devastating trail of destruction.

Gil, who worked as a security guard in the residential building, has been alive and receiving hydration since his location was confirmed on Sunday. However, his precarious position within the basement guardhouse presents significant challenges for rescuers. Access is difficult, and heavy machinery cannot be used due to the building's compromised structure, forcing rescue efforts to rely on manual tools.

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What they do tell me is that access to him is a bit difficult and that they are trying to remove the debris with manual tools because they cannot bring in machines as the building is very affected.

His wife, Gusbimar González, has been at the site since Thursday, anxiously awaiting news after her husband failed to return home from his shift. She shared that the guardhouse itself acted as a protective shield, preserving his life. International rescue teams from the United States, Chile, Costa Rica, Vietnam, Portugal, El Salvador, and Mexico are collaborating with Venezuelan volunteers and the Cruz Roja venezolana.

González expressed hope and urged continued search efforts in other affected areas, believing other survivors may still be trapped. According to Venezuelan government figures, the disaster has resulted in at least 1,943 deaths, with over 10,571 injured and 6,461 people rescued. The United Nations is coordinating over 2,000 rescuers from 27 countries in the search for survivors.

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I have a hunch that they are waiting to be pulled out from under the rubble.