Social networks have become a key tool in the search for missing people after the two earthquakes that shook Venezuela on Wednesday night. Given the lack of official information and communication failures, families inside and outside the country have turned to digital platforms to disseminate photos, data and alerts.
Earthquakes and emergency
The earthquakes, of magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, left hundreds dead and thousands injured, in addition to widespread damage in regions such as La Guaira and areas near Caracas. Authorities warn that the number of victims could increase as rescue efforts continue through the rubble.
Disinformation crisis
Independent online registries report tens of thousands of people unaccounted for, a figure far higher than official counts. Families of Venezuelans living abroad have shared the uncertainty of not being able to contact their loved ones due to the interruption of basic services and limited connectivity.
International organizations, including the UN human rights mission in Venezuela, have called for restoring access to social media and messaging platforms. They point out that timely information is crucial in disasters, as it can facilitate rescues and the location of people.
Meanwhile, thousands of Venezuelan migrants in countries such as Mexico, Spain, Chile and Brazil are experiencing the anguish of not knowing the status of their relatives. Distance has turned tragedy into an uncertain wait, where the only tool available is the constant dissemination of messages on networks in the hope of obtaining a response.
