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NewsWPLG Local 10 – EspañolAugust 14, 2026Miami-Dade County

AP photographer reflects on documenting earthquake aftermath in Venezuela and Colombia

Photo: WPLG Local 10 – Español

Associated Press photographer Fernando Vergara discusses his experience documenting the human and structural impact of recent earthquakes in Venezuela and Colombia. He reflects on the emotional challenges of capturing tragedy and the importance of documenting successful rescue efforts.

EarthquakeJournalismDisaster ReliefVenezuelaColombia
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Español

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 and human impact between the two regions.

Key Facts

  • Fernando Vergara has worked as a photographer for the Associated Press for 20 years.
  • Earthquakes occurred in Venezuela in late June and in Pereira, Colombia, on 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 of one to three stories.
  • Rescue efforts in La Guaira, Venezuela, were complicated by dust, heat, and the smell of decomposition.
  • Daniela Largos Sanchez was rescued from rubble in Pereira on August 11, the day after the earthquake.

Who's Mentioned

locationPereira“Site of earthquake in Colombia.”locationLa Guaira“Site of earthquake in Venezuela.”PersonDaniela Largos Sanchez“Earthquake survivor rescued in Pereira.”PersonFernando Vergara“Associated Press photographer who documented earthquake aftermaths.”OrganizationDefensa Civil“Rescue organization involved in disaster response.”OrganizationThe Associated Press“News agency employing the photographer.”