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๐Ÿ‡ป๐Ÿ‡ช Venezuela /Disasters & Emergencies

Venezuela uses laser light technology to examine La Guaira's subsoil after earthquakes

From El Nacional · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Venezuelan scientists are using LiDAR technology and geophysical studies to assess underground conditions in La Guaira after recent earthquakes.
  • The effort aims to update seismic microzonation and mitigate risks following the magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 tremors.
  • The initiative involves high-resolution aerial imagery from drones to map terrain impact and inform risk reduction strategies.

Specialized teams from Venezuela's Ministry of Science and Technology (Mincyt) are deploying advanced LiDAR technology and conducting geophysical studies across La Guaira state. This initiative aims to evaluate underground conditions following the significant earthquakes of July 24, which registered magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5.

The primary objective is to update the seismic microzonation of the region, a critical step in understanding and mitigating risks associated with seismic activity. Minister Yvรกn Gil announced the deployment on Telegram, detailing how the Mincyt teams are conducting technical inspections in various sectors to assess the subsoil. The Venezuelan Agency for Space Activities (ABAE) is also participating, using state-of-the-art drones to capture high-resolution aerial images of affected areas.

These aerial images help identify surface cracks and precisely assess the seismic event's impact on the terrain. The collected data will be used to generate specialized 3D models and maps of the region. LiDAR technology, which uses laser light pulses to measure distances, creates detailed representations of the terrain and structures, providing crucial information for risk management.

The results from these technical inspections are considered vital for designing effective risk mitigation strategies in La Guaira. The state continues to be evaluated after the earthquakes severely damaged its infrastructure and territory. Meanwhile, Jorge Rodrรญguez, president of the National Assembly, reported that as of July 17, the double earthquake had caused 5,069 deaths and left 16,740 injured, with 17,907 people remaining homeless.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Nacional in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.