The LA County Fire Department's USA-2 rescue team, based in Pacoima, deployed to Venezuela on Thursday after two massive earthquakes killed at least 188 people. The 71-person team brought search dogs and 84,000 pounds of equipment to aid in recovery efforts.
A team of and six search dogs departed from Pacoima on Thursday evening for Venezuela. The Los Angeles County Fire Department's International Urban Search and Rescue team, known as , is responding to two massive earthquakes that struck central Venezuela on Wednesday.
The quakes registered 7.5 and 7.2 on the magnitude scale. They are the strongest earthquakes to hit the country since 1900.
According to reports from Venezuela, the earthquakes killed at least 188 people and injured at least 1,500 others. Buildings collapsed across the country's center. Hundreds of people remain trapped beneath the rubble.
"Our thoughts are with those impacted by these devastating earthquakes and we wish all the first responders responding safe travels as they assist during this time of great need," the LACoFD said in a statement.
The team left from the LACoFD Technical Operations facility in Pacoima. The facility is located adjacent to Whiteman Airport. The team departed around 5:30 p.m. on June 25.
USA-2 brought approximately 84,000 pounds of specialized rescue equipment. The team will work alongside the Fairfax County Fire Department's international Urban Search and Rescue team, known as USA-1.
Key details of the deployment:
Fire officials said the teams will conduct search, rescue, and recovery operations in the hardest-hit areas. The deployment highlights the global role of first responders based in the San Fernando Valley.
The departure of USA-2 draws attention to the Pacoima facility's role in international disaster response. The team's work in Venezuela follows a busy year for the unit. Residents in Pacoima and the wider San Fernando Valley have watched their neighbors pack up and fly out to help communities around the world.
According to the LACoFD, the team will remain in Venezuela until the international effort concludes.
This article was generated with AI assistance.