40,000 Missing in Venezuela After Twin Quakes, Families Flood Social Media for Help

40,000 Missing in Venezuela After Twin Quakes, Families Flood Social Media for Help

The death toll from two massive earthquakes that struck Venezuela has climbed to at least 235, with over 4,300 injured and an estimated 40,000 people now listed as missing, as desperate families turn to social media to find their loved ones.

· 2 min read ·
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Two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, hit Venezuela’s northern coast almost simultaneously on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction in the capital, Caracas, and the port city of La Guaira [181686][182332]. The quakes collapsed dozens of buildings, damaged the Simón Bolívar international airport, and left roads and key infrastructure in ruins [181686][182284].

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has declared a state of emergency as rescue teams search for survivors in the rubble [182283][181589]. Health Minister Carlos Alvarado confirmed the official death toll of 235, with at least 4,300 injured, but officials warn the numbers will rise as more areas are reached [182332][182241].

With phone lines damaged, social media has become a lifeline for families. Independent online registries list up to 40,000 people as missing, far exceeding the government’s official count [182332]. Families are creating digital flyers on WhatsApp, Facebook, and X with photos and details of their relatives.

“It’s a feeling of impotence and uncertainty,” said Vanesa Marcano, 31, who posted photos from Madrid of her uncle and aunt in La Guaira state. Her uncle’s daughter and 7-year-old grandson, visiting from the United States, are also missing [182332].

International aid is rushing in. Türkiye is sending two military aircraft carrying search and rescue teams, medical personnel, and humanitarian supplies [182327]. The United States has also pledged to deploy search and rescue teams to the affected region [181686].

“They are pulling people out of the building alive,” said Jhoyser Concalves, who ran to his partner’s apartment building after the quake and found only debris. “So I still have hope” [182332].

Rescue crews continue to search through rubble for victims, while hospitals are overwhelmed with the injured [182241]. Authorities have urged residents to stay away from damaged buildings due to the risk of further aftershocks [182241].

Sources

Venezuela quakes: 40,000 missing, families turn to social media #182332Türkiye sends rescue planes to Venezuela after earthquakes #1823277.2 and 7.5 Quakes Hit Venezuela; Thousands Feared Dead #181686Venezuela Earthquakes: Thousands Feared Dead, State of Emergency Declared #182283Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Hits 235; Over 4,300 Injured #182241Venezuela Declares Emergency After Twin Quakes Kill 32, Injure 700 #181589Venezuela Earthquake: Twin Quakes Destroy Port City, Wreck Roads and Buildings #182284

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