The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 climbed to 2,954 on Saturday, while the number of injured rose to 16,592, according to National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez, as search-and-rescue operations continue across the country.
Rodríguez said the magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes, which struck the country in rapid succession, left more than 16,000 people homeless and damaged over 800 buildings.
Rescue and recovery efforts continue
A total of 29,567 personnel, together with more than 3,000 international rescue workers, have been deployed to help communities affected by the disaster, particularly in the hardest-hit state La Guaira, according to Rodríguez.
The earthquakes left La Guaira with widespread destruction, forcing thousands of residents from their homes and into temporary shelters.
In a video shared on his Telegram channel on Saturday, the national assembly leader was seen traveling by helicopter to the temporary shelter at Ciudad Vacacional Los Caracas, the largest shelter in La Guaira, to inspect the facilities and ensure residents have safe living conditions.
He was also seen visiting families from Tanaguarena staying at the Los Caracas camp, assuring them of the government’s continued support.
“Our absolute priority is the protection and well-being of the affected families,” Rodríguez wrote in his post.
“Rest assured that you have the full support, protection and solidarity of the government as we work together, united as a nation, to overcome this tragedy.”
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Foreign rescue teams recognized
The Venezuelan government also thanked the international delegations that joined emergency operations following the June 24 earthquakes.
In recognition of their contributions, Acting President Delcy Rodríguez awarded the Hero of Venezuela Medal and the Venezuelan Canine Heroes Medal to representatives from 19 countries, including officials from the United States, for their outstanding service during the rescue mission.
“We recognize the invaluable dedication of the foreign delegations that joined our rescue operations,” the government said.
The government also thanked the foreign delegations for their solidarity following the disaster, saying their support has strengthened ongoing rescue and relief efforts in the hardest-hit communities.
Rebuilding amid economic challenges
The earthquakes come as Venezuela struggles with economic difficulties despite having the world’s largest proven oil reserves.
According to a satellite-based Rapid Digital Assessment (RAPIDA) by the United Nations Development Program, the earthquakes caused an estimated US$6.7 billion in direct physical damage, equivalent to about 6% of Venezuela’s gross domestic product (GDP).
The assessment covers direct damage to housing and economic assets but does not include infrastructure losses or long-term reconstruction costs.
The Venezuelan government has yet to announce a comprehensive financial recovery or reconstruction plan.
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