Venezuela: More international aid arrives to confront earthquake tragedy

Venezuela is mobilizing international support to recover from a devastating double earthquake that struck the nation a week prior, leaving tens of thousands missing and over 1,700 dead. Approximately 30 countries are contributing to relief efforts.

Preliminary satellite data from NASA suggests that over 58,000 buildings may have been damaged or destroyed by the powerful tremors. US Marines have reopened the port of La Guaira, a critical hub for receiving aid and supplies, following damage to its control tower. The port is now functioning as an improvised morgue amidst the widespread destruction.

Rescuers and volunteers continue to search through mountains of rubble, holding onto a remote hope of finding survivors more than five days after the tragedy. A magnitude 4.6 tremor on Monday rekindled fear among the shaken population. In total, 27 countries have deployed nearly 40 search and rescue teams, comprising over 2,000 personnel, 1,000 tons of supplies, and more than 160 dogs, according to UN coordinator Gianluca Rampolla.

The UN is providing 10,000 body bags, though officials hope the final death toll will be lower. A US State Department official reported that 300 American rescue workers are on the ground, with two dozen C-17 military transport aircraft arriving daily with supplies. US financial aid has now surpassed $300 million. The US military is also assisting with repairs at the port of La Guaira to facilitate maritime arrivals and manage air traffic after the earthquake damaged the control tower at Simón Bolívar International Airport in Caracas. Colombia has sent its third humanitarian flight, carrying 3,200 aid items, including food, medicine, body bags, tents, and hygiene kits.