Venezuelans remain on edge a month after deadly double earthquake

One month after a devastating double earthquake struck Venezuela's La Guaira state, residents are still grappling with fear and uncertainty. Many survivors are choosing to sleep outdoors or in tents, unable to shake the anxiety that has gripped the community.

Mervin Tera, a 44-year-old hairdresser from the La Lucha sector, described the persistent "nervios" (nerves) and fear that prevent people from feeling safe in their homes. "The people still live with nerves, the people still sleep in tents," he told EFE. His community lost nine neighbors in the disaster, prompting a recent gathering to pray the Rosary in their memory.

The earthquakes struck unexpectedly during the San Juan Bautista festivities, turning celebrations into "such great sadness." Tera recounted the surprise and devastation, noting that nature "surprised us in such a way that it took many loved ones." The disaster not only claimed lives but also caused extensive damage to homes, leaving many injured, both spiritually and physically.

Jesús Velásquez, who lost his eldest daughter, a cousin, and an uncle, expressed gratitude for international aid, including support from El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele and fellow Venezuelans. He appealed for strength to cope with the "great pain" left by the loss. The state of La Guaira was the hardest hit, with official reports indicating 5,546 deaths, 16,740 injuries, and nearly 18,000 people left homeless.

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No se ha superado, mucho miedo, muchas expectativas. ¿Qué va a ser de nosotros? Hoy nos dicen una cosa, mañana otra, la gente todavía vive con nervios, la gente todavía duerme en carpas.