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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 14, 2026Miami-Dade

AP photographer reflects on documenting earthquake aftermath in Venezuela and Colombia

Associated Press photographer Fernando Vergara shares his experience documenting the human and structural impact of recent deadly earthquakes in Venezuela and Colombia. He discusses the challenges of capturing tragedy with sensitivity and the emotional significance of documenting successful rescue efforts.

earthquakejournalismdisaster-reliefVenezuelaColombia
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Why It Matters

This article provides a firsthand account of the scale of destruction and rescue operations following seismic events in South America, highlighting the differences in structural damage between the two regions.

Key Facts

  • Two major earthquakes occurred in Venezuela (late June) and Colombia (August 10).
  • The earthquake in Venezuela resulted in higher death tolls and the collapse of taller apartment buildings compared to the damage in Colombia.
  • Damage in Pereira, Colombia, primarily affected lower-level buildings (one to three stories).
  • Rescue operations in La Guaira, Venezuela, were characterized by difficult conditions, including dust, heat, and the smell of decomposition.
  • Fernando Vergara has been a photographer for the Associated Press for 20 years.

Who's Mentioned

locationPereira“Site of an earthquake in Colombia on August 10.”locationLa Guaira“Site of a major earthquake in Venezuela.”personDaniela Largos Sanchez“Earthquake survivor rescued in Pereira, Colombia.”personFernando Vergara“Associated Press photographer who documented earthquake aftermaths.”organizationThe Associated Press“News agency employing the photographer.”