The official death toll from the devastating double earthquake that struck Venezuela on June 24 has now reached 5,119, according to the latest reports. This update comes after an additional 50 deaths were confirmed, as reported by the EFE agency citing Jorge Rodríguez, President of the National Assembly.
Rodríguez shared this update via Telegram, also noting that the number of injured individuals remains at 16,740, and rescue efforts have saved 6,462 people since the disaster began.
The scale of displacement highlights the tragedy's severity: 17,907 individuals have lost their homes, while 21,470 are currently housed in 107 temporary camps scattered across the nation.
Venezuelan authorities have so far assisted 128,324 families, and the country is receiving help from 2,278 international rescuers.
Impact and Aftermath
Following the two seismic events, which had magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5 and occurred just 39 seconds apart, there have been 1,350 aftershocks recorded, according to the official report.
The coastal regions of La Guaira state, particularly Caraballeda, Catia La Mar, and Macuto, bore the brunt of the destruction. Over 346 buildings have collapsed, and approximately 63,000 structures have sustained damage, as per Venezuelan government data.
This earthquake is deemed the deadliest in Venezuela's modern history and the most significant seismic event recorded in the country since 1900.
International Response and Aid
The number of casualties has steadily increased since the initial report: 164 deaths were recorded on June 25; by June 30, the number exceeded 1,900; it rose to 3,342 by July 6, and reached 4,490 by July 12.
Among the foreign victims are at least nine Cubans who perished, with between 29 and 32 Cubans missing, mostly in La Guaira.
On the international front, the International Monetary Fund released $346 million to aid Venezuela's recovery efforts, focusing on housing, infrastructure, and essential services.
Additionally, Uruguay contributed by sending a flight carrying 15 tons of humanitarian aid to Venezuela, including medical supplies, medicines, and hygiene kits. This aid was organized through interagency cooperation, as stated by the Uruguayan Presidency.
The United Nations estimates that up to 68,000 people are missing, and over 6.7 million have been affected by the disaster. Meanwhile, the aid pledged by the United States has surpassed $386 million.
Frequently Asked Questions about Venezuela's Earthquake
What was the magnitude of the earthquakes that hit Venezuela?
The earthquakes had magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, occurring just 39 seconds apart.
How many people are currently displaced due to the earthquakes?
A total of 17,907 people have lost their homes, and 21,470 are living in temporary camps.
How has the international community responded to the disaster?
The international community, including the IMF and Uruguay, has provided financial aid and humanitarian assistance. The United States has pledged over $386 million in aid.