Venezuelans have taken the search for missing loved ones into their own hands, citing a scarcity of government rescuers.

Residents of La Guaira, a popular spot for beachgoers and the worst-hit city in the country, and Moron, near the quakes' epicenter, were scrambling amid limited official help.

LA GUAIRA, Venezuela — Venezuelans searched for survivors beneath collapsed buildings Thursday and rescue teams raced to northern areas rocked by a...