Rescuers in Venezuela’s Portuguesa state evacuated five people on Sunday, February 15, 2026, after a sudden rise in the Guanare River threatened to trap them. The incident underscores the potential dangers of seasonal flooding in the region, particularly as communities prepare for Carnival celebrations.
According to reports, the surge in the river’s water level was caused by increased flow from the Anús River, located northwest of Guanare. Several people were in the area at the time, enjoying the river as a recreational spot.
Emergency responders, including Civil Protection officials, firefighters, and members of the military and police, mobilized to the scene to conduct the rescue operation. The five individuals were found isolated near a stage that had been set up in the middle of the riverbed for planned Carnival activities.
Regional government representatives also arrived to assess the situation and coordinate assistance for those affected. Authorities confirmed that all five people rescued were in stable condition, though the rising waters did cause some property damage in the surrounding area.
Journalist Mariangel Moro reported that the current carried away several vehicles, including a tanker truck, as well as the stage and tents that had been installed for Carnival festivities. Activities at local swimming areas have been temporarily suspended. See photos and video of the flooding here.
Watch video of the rescue operation.
Ten la información al instante en tu celular. Únete al canal de Diario Primicia en WhatsApp a través del siguiente link: https://
También estamos en Telegram como @DiarioPrimicia, únete aquí: https://t.me/
