Venezuela Earthquake Survivor Slept in His Car After Buildings Collapsed in ‘Terrifying’ Disaster: ‘I Thought I Was Going to Die’

At least 188 individuals have lost their lives following a series of powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, according to official reports. The quakes, which were measured at magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5 by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), caused widespread destruction in and around the Caracas area, leading to the collapse of numerous buildings.

In the wake of the disasters, many survivors are beginning to recount their terrifying experiences. One such survivor, Billy Ebrin, shared his story with Al Jazeera after spending the night in his car, fearing to return to his apartment on the seventh floor in Caracas. Ebrin described the event as harrowing, stating, “I thought I was going to die,” as he sheltered under a doorframe while the earth shook around him.

Ebrin recounted how his three dogs reacted during the calamity, hiding under beds as he sought safety. The dire situation forced him to dash to the ground floor once the tremors subsided, where he encountered a scene of chaos. “People were bumping into each other in the confusion: elderly people, those carrying their pets, even squirrels and parrots,” he explained, highlighting the intensity of the panic that gripped the city.

Rescue teams have been working tirelessly amid reports that over 1,500 individuals sustained injuries during the earthquakes and more than 200 people remain trapped in the rubble of collapsed structures. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed as search and rescue operations continue.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez addressed the nation, labelling the situation a “true tragedy” and referring to the affected areas as a “disaster zone.” Her statements underscored the scale of the devastation, with reports indicating that “dozens” of buildings were left in ruins.

The global response to the disaster has been one of solidarity. Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, María Corina Machado, issued a warning that “every hour counts” in the ongoing efforts to address the crisis. Her comments reflect a growing concern as the window for immediate rescue actions narrows.

International figures have also expressed their condolences. U.S. Secretary of State Mark Rubio took to social media to share his sympathies, saying, “Our hearts are with all those who have lost loved ones, those injured, and the courageous rescue workers working tirelessly in the aftermath.” His message highlights the international community’s awareness and concern for the plight of the Venezuelan people during this tragic time.

As the dust begins to settle following the tremors, the recovery process remains daunting. Authorities are working diligently to provide aid and assess the needs of those who have survived the disasters. The focus now shifts to the long-term recovery efforts, which will require substantial resources and support both domestically and from international allies.

In the coming days, survivors like Billy Ebrin and countless others will continue to grapple with the psychological and physical impact of the earthquakes. As they navigate the challenges ahead, the need for critical infrastructure and adequate housing becomes increasingly urgent. Understanding the full ramifications of such disasters will take time, but the unity and resilience of the Venezuelan people will serve as a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.