Canarian Community in Venezuela Mobilises for Earthquake Relief
The Canarian community in Venezuela is working tirelessly to coordinate aid for victims of two recent earthquakes that struck the northern region of the country, predominantly affecting La Guaira and Caracas. Nearly a week on, the disaster has resulted in almost 2,000 fatalities, over 10,000 injuries, and more than 16,000 people missing.
Carmen, daughter of Gomeros and head of the Unión Canaria de Venezuela, one of 29 Canarian centres in the country, described the situation as “stressful.” With aftershocks continuing, search efforts for survivors are ongoing. “We’re trying to hold on and keep assisting, hoping for more,” she told Europa Press.
Carmen praised the support from the Government of the Canary Islands, which has implemented a three-month action plan to distribute medicines, non-perishable food, and water through its network of centres. She emphasised the urgent need for medical supplies, especially for the elderly, and mentioned that many have lost their homes, complicating matters further.
“The scope of the disaster is significant; 90% of the eastern area is destroyed,” she noted. While there is sufficient clothing and food, the real challenge lies in effectively delivering this aid. Carmen also highlighted the shortage of heavy equipment needed for rescue operations, leading to growing anxiety among families.
José Ramón Arvelo, president of the Hogar Canario Venezolano in Caracas, reported that their centre has become a hub for gathering aid and assisting those affected. He indicated that while there is still “distress,” the community feels “somewhat calmer” as the situation progresses.
Meanwhile, José Luis from the Hogar Canario Larense in Lara stated that their area remained untouched, but La Guaira and northern coastal regions like Caracas are severely impacted, with numerous casualties and the collapse of hundreds of buildings. Like other centres, the Hogar Larense has transformed into a collection point and a medical facility to support the local Canarian population.
“This is a tragedy,” he concluded, reflecting on the scale of the disaster.
