Portuguese government confirms first fatality in Venezuela earthquake
The Portuguese government has confirmed the first fatality of a Portuguese national following two major earthquakes that struck Venezuela this week. Regional authorities in Madeira also reported that two other victims of Portuguese descent have died, while the Portuguese Red Cross (Cruz Vermelha Portuguesa) is currently collecting donations to support emergency relief efforts in the affected region.
Update: Death toll rises to 235 following Venezuela earthquakes
The official death toll from the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes has risen to 235, with at least 4,300 people injured. Portugal is preparing to deploy an operational force of 60 civil protection and emergency personnel to assist with relief efforts in the coming hours.
The Portuguese Red Cross (Cruz Vermelha Portuguesa) is the national Red Cross society, founded in 1865, that provides emergency medical aid, shelters, blood donation drives and social services across the country. It works with Civil Protection in floods and storms to assist displaced people and coordinate volunteer relief. Those needing help or wanting to donate or volunteer can contact local branches or its national website.
