The mudslide in Vargas in 1999 is one of the most devastating disasters in South America – a story in which drama and hope intertwine in witness words.
A Disaster That Changed Venezuela
Don't pull me out... My daughters hold my hands.
These were father's last words during the tragedy in Vargas in 1999. Buried under the mud, he refused to let his two daughters go, deciding to stay with them, even if it meant his own death.
In December 1999 on the north coast Venezuelain the state Vargas, the most tragic mudslide in the history of the country has occurred. The heavy rains continued for several days, leading to violent floods and landslides. As a result, whole cities have been literally swept off the face of the earth, and the number of people who have lost their lives is estimated at fromTen to even 30 grand.
Difficulties of lifeguards
On December 15, 1999, the mountains of the state of Vargas (today's state of La Guaira), which had been flooded for weeks by intense rainfall, began to "throw away" rivers of water, mud and stones towards the coast.
Rescuers had to face chaos, lack of equipment and difficult logistics – conditions prevented them from reaching the most vulnerable people quickly. In many places the mud reached several meters, and homes, roads and infrastructure were completely destroyed. For weeks, attempts to extract imprisoned people continued.
Moving Certificates and Family Strength
One of the most thrilling quotes that became a symbol of tragedy was the words of the victim: "Don't pull me out, both my daughters hold my hands."
According to sources and reports on the 1999 Vargas avalanche, the father making a famous quote He didn't make it. This disaster. In the accounts of this event this quote occurs as the last farewell words of a person buried under a layer of mud together with daughters
The avalanche in Vargas affected not only the local community, but also policies and crisis management systems in Venezuela. After the tragedy:
- mass migration from vulnerable areas
- introduction of new rules on construction in risk areas
- greater public awareness of natural hazards
A terrible tragedy. 🙁