Following a powerful earthquake in Venezuela, the local Venezuelan community in Barcelona is organizing relief efforts. Many are struggling to contact loved ones affected by the disaster.
A significant earthquake struck Venezuela on Wednesday, leaving many residents in Barcelona anxious about their families back home. Ronald, a long-time resident of the city originally from La Guaira, one of the hardest-hit areas, expressed his distress as he attempts to reach seven relatives whose whereabouts remain unknown.
The president of the Catalano-Venezolana Association (Asocaven), José Luis Acuña, highlighted the overwhelming sense of uncertainty and anguish within the Venezuelan community in Barcelona. Communication with family members has been severely disrupted due to infrastructure damage caused by the quake. Acuña stated that various Venezuelan associations will convene this afternoon to strategize on how best to support those affected.
With Venezuela’s main airport currently closed, Acuña noted that alternative routes must be found for sending financial aid and essential supplies like medications and first aid materials. The goal is to dispatch products from locations closer to Venezuela rather than Europe, ensuring quicker delivery.
Many members of the community are relying on social media and messaging apps like WhatsApp to share information and offer mutual support during this crisis. Ronald shared his sleepless night spent trying to connect with friends and family amid rising anxiety over their safety. Some have relocated to designated shelters equipped with water and internet access.
“I have no idea if my relatives are trapped under rubble or if they managed to escape,” Ronald lamented. His distress peaked when he received a call from a crying relative who informed him about the disaster late at night.
Another member of the community, Robert, described living through this ordeal with heightened emotions as videos of destruction flood his phone. While he managed to confirm some family members were safe, he too faced challenges reaching others.
Luis Enrique learned about the earthquake only after waking up that morning; he was asleep when it occurred. He reported that while San Felipe—near the epicenter—did not suffer extensive damage, his inability to contact family left him feeling uneasy and concerned for their well-being.
Historically speaking, earthquakes are relatively rare in Venezuela; however, Ronald pointed out that many buildings in La Guaira were already vulnerable due to severe flooding incidents back in 1999 which had previously weakened structures across the region.
The year 2026 has already proven tumultuous for Venezuela’s citizens both politically and now through natural disasters. Acuña reflected on how recent political upheavals—including Nicolás Maduro’s arrest—have compounded difficulties faced by Venezuelans at home and abroad.
Despite these challenges, Acuña believes there lies an opportunity for national reinvention amidst adversity: “This could be a moment for unity among Venezuelans as we work together towards rebuilding our country.”
The meeting today aims not only at planning immediate assistance but also at fostering solidarity among expatriates eager to contribute positively during such trying times. Those wishing to help can find more information through local Venezuelan organizations or visit Asocaven’s website for details on donation drives and volunteer opportunities.
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