The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela last month has risen to over 5,000, National Assembly chief Jorge Rodriguez announced on Friday. The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude quakes, which hit within a minute of each other on June 24, devastated the coastal state of La Guaira, north of Caracas. Rodriguez stated that 5,069 people were killed, with most casualties occurring in the coastal region. The number of injured remains at 16,740, with most already discharged from hospitals.
Interim President Delcy Rodriguez announced that the country would access $346 million from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for reconstruction efforts. The IMF has not yet responded to inquiries regarding this funding. Meanwhile, approximately 20,000 people rendered homeless by the quakes are living in overcrowded camps, many lacking adequate water supplies and sanitation systems.
The earthquakes have left a trail of destruction across La Guaira, with entire communities flattened and infrastructure severely damaged. The region's economy, already struggling, faces further strain as recovery efforts begin. The government is working to provide immediate relief and long-term support to those affected.
International aid organizations have begun to mobilize resources to assist with the relief efforts. The United Nations and various NGOs are coordinating with Venezuelan authorities to ensure that aid reaches those in need. The focus remains on providing shelter, medical care, and essential supplies to the affected population.
As the country grapples with the aftermath of the disaster, the long road to recovery lies ahead. The government's immediate priority is to stabilize the situation and begin the process of rebuilding the devastated areas. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, offering support where possible.
