Rains Worsen Conditions for Caracas Earthquake Victims: 'We are Adrift'

Hundreds of displaced people in Caracas are enduring harsh conditions, sleeping in makeshift tents in public squares after losing their homes in recent earthquakes. Heavy rains have compounded their suffering, soaking their temporary shelters and belongings, creating a miserable environment.

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It has been hard because we not only lost our homes, but we are left here adrift, with rain and cold. Especially the rains. The tents get wet, even though they are waterproof, and our mattresses, the children, the elderly, pregnant women, and even the animals have gotten wet.

Francesca Vargas, 17, described the ordeal: "It has been hard because we not only lost our homes, but we are left here adrift, with rain and cold." She explained that even waterproof tents get soaked, affecting children, the elderly, pregnant women, and even pets.

Families are struggling to find materials like cardboard to insulate their tents from the cold and damp. Vargas voiced frustration that much of the focus remains on La Guaira, the state most affected by the earthquakes, while neglecting the needs of people in other areas. "Sometimes they deny tents and food, and we don't think that's right. We all need, we all have needs, and more so now that we don't have a home," she said.

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Sometimes they deny tents and food, and we don't think that's right. We all need, we all have needs, and more so now that we don't have a home and some have been kicked out of their buildings because they are also in danger of another aftershock and collapse.

Vargas recounted the terrifying moment the earthquake struck, describing how the street moved like a wave and buildings swayed. She recalled the shock and sadness of seeing neighbors, including the elderly and women with children, fleeing their homes. Despite their plight, they have not been informed about any plans for relocation to safer and more comfortable accommodations.

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Mom, jump! Mom, please jump out of the house, it's shaking! I ran out and my mom followed me, and when we got out, the earthquake started. The street moved like a wave and the buildings went from here to there. Everything rumbled with the buzzing. I was in shock because I didn't process what was happening.