|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WHAT:
The County of Los Angeles Fire Department’s (LACoFD) international urban search and rescue (USAR) team, known as USA-2, has been activated by the U.S. Department of State to respond to Venezuela in the wake of the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes that hit the country’s center. USA-2 is scheduled to depart from the LACoFD Technical Operations facility today, June 25, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. (PT).
Two major earthquakes struck central Venezuela on Wednesday,
June 24, 2026, causing buildings to collapse with 188 reported deaths, more than 1,500 injured, and hundreds of people reported trapped in the rubble. The 7.5 magnitude earthquake is the largest to hit the country since 1900.
USA-2 is comprised of 71 members, six canine teams, and includes 84,000 pounds of equipment. USA-2 joins the Fairfax County Fire Department’s international USAR team, USA-1, to provide search, rescue, and recovery assistance. Daily communication will be maintained with the U.S. Department of State and both USA-1 and USA-2 throughout their deployment.
Our thoughts are with all 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.
Members of the media will have an opportunity to get an inside look as USA-2 members prepare to depart to Venezuela this evening.
WHEN:
Thursday, June 25, 2026
4:30 p.m.
WHERE:
LACoFD Pacoima Facility Technical Operations Section
12605 Osborne Street
Pacoima, CA 91331
###
|
