A devastating earthquake struck northern Venezuela on Tuesday, claiming the life of a mother who died shielding her young daughter from falling debris. The tragedy has prompted an emergency appeal from British charities, as rescue teams race to reach survivors in the affected region.
The 6.8 magnitude quake, centred near the coastal city of Cumaná, collapsed hundreds of homes and triggered landslides that buried several villages. Local authorities have confirmed at least 67 deaths, with more than 1,200 injured. The mother, identified as María Rodríguez, 34, was killed instantly when a concrete slab fell on her as she protected her five-year-old daughter. The child survived with minor injuries.
British charities, including the Disasters Emergency Committee and Oxfam, have launched an emergency appeal to fund search and rescue operations, medical aid, and shelter for the displaced. The UK government announced an initial £2 million in humanitarian assistance, with Foreign Secretary James Cleverly stating that "Britain stands in solidarity with the Venezuelan people."
Venezuela’s infrastructure, already weakened by years of economic crisis, has been further compromised. Roads and bridges have been destroyed, hindering access to remote communities. The government has declared a state of emergency in Sucre state, where Cumaná is located, and has deployed the military to assist in relief efforts.
International rescue teams from Spain, Mexico, and the United States have arrived to assist local workers. The United Nations has allocated $10 million from its Central Emergency Response Fund. However, aid distribution remains challenging due to fuel shortages and bureaucratic hurdles imposed by the Maduro administration.
The earthquake struck at 7:48 p.m. local time, at a depth of 20 kilometres. Seismologists have recorded over 40 aftershocks, raising fears of further building collapses. The US Geological Survey has warned that the region remains seismically active.
For those wishing to donate, the Disasters Emergency Committee has set up a dedicated webpage for the Venezuela Earthquake Appeal. The UK government will match public donations up to £5 million.
