Recovery efforts in Venezuela continue after two massive earthquakes hit the country Wednesday. The death toll stands at around 589 people, with more than 4,300 injured. Officials say the number may rise as the search for survivors continues.
Volunteers help clear rubble, deliver food and water, and assist those affected by the disaster. According to structural engineer Kenneth O’Dell, rescue personnel must thoroughly check damaged structures before entering them.
“The first step is to assess the building to assure that in trying to gain access to a building, we don’t further cause collapse,” says O’Dell.
International support also increases. Mexico provides rescue workers and humanitarian aid, while the United States announces it will send search and rescue teams to help with recovery efforts.
