Desperate Search Continues In Venezuela As Florida Task Force 1 Works Around The Clock

Florida Task Force 1 (FL-TF1), part of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue’s Urban Search and Rescue team, is continuing round-the-clock search and rescue operations in Playa Grande more than a week after twin earthquakes struck the coastal region.

The area was hit on June 24 by a magnitude 7.2 earthquake, followed 39 seconds later by a 7.5 tremor. FL-TF1 was deployed to Playa Grande on June 26 to support ongoing emergency response efforts.

New images show the team working in the field alongside international partners, as crews stress that every moment remains critical for families still waiting for answers.

The earthquakes have caused widespread devastation, with thousands reported dead, more than ten thousand injured, and tens of thousands still unaccounted for.

FL-TF1 is a Type I Urban Search and Rescue team consisting of 80 highly trained personnel and six canine units. The team operates across 19 specialized disciplines, including structural assessment, technical search, rescue operations, logistics, hazardous materials mitigation, communications, safety, and advanced medical care.

Officials said the department remains committed to supporting the people of Venezuela and will continue coordinated efforts with international and local partners to provide lifesaving assistance.