UN installs three field hospitals in Venezuela's La Guaira after earthquakes

The United Nations has established three field hospitals in Venezuela's La Guaira state to assist victims of the recent powerful earthquakes. Gianluca Rampolla, the UN Resident Coordinator in Venezuela, informed EFE that these facilities are intended to provide immediate care to the most severely injured, as transferring all affected individuals to Caracas's health centers is deemed unsustainable.

“

The objective is to be able to treat the most affected on-site with these hospitals.

During a tour on Friday, EFE observed that many patients at Caracas's Vargas Hospital and Domingo Luciani Hospital originated from the coastal region, which suffered the most damage from the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude tremors. The UN is also working with Venezuelan authorities to set up "multi-service shelters" equipped with bathrooms and dining areas for those displaced by the earthquakes. These shelters will be located close to affected communities to minimize travel for residents who lost their homes.

“

multi-service shelters

Rampolla described the situation in La Guaira as grave, acknowledging the efforts of international and Venezuelan rescue teams. However, he cautioned that many buildings still need to be checked for trapped survivors. As of Saturday, Venezuelan officials reported 1,430 deaths, 3,238 injuries, and 3,142 families affected by the disaster. The government also announced the distribution of 2,600 tons of food and potable water in La Guaira. Over 1,600 rescue workers have arrived in Venezuela to aid in the relief efforts.

“

still need to reach 'many' buildings to verify if there are people trapped and alive.