Death toll from double earthquake in Venezuela rises to 6,300

The devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 have claimed 6,301 lives, as families continue their desperate search for the missing amidst the rubble of collapsed buildings. The government has yet to release an official count of those lost following the powerful 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude tremors. These quakes led to the destruction of approximately 190 structures, predominantly in the coastal state of La Guaira, located about 40 kilometers from the capital, Caracas.

Many Venezuelans experienced a terrifying echo of past disasters as a 7.4 magnitude earthquake, originating in Colombia, was felt across several regions on Monday. This recent seismic event has resulted in at least 111 fatalities and left dozens injured. The previous official toll from Venezuelan authorities, updated on August 3, reported 6,125 deaths. Just over a week ago, the governor of La Guaira state indicated that around 1,400 people remained unaccounted for.

Beyond the buildings that were completely destroyed, authorities have classified an additional 9,567 structures as being at "high risk." Furthermore, 12,411 residences have been deemed "restricted." Consequently, numerous families who previously occupied these homes are now housed in temporary shelters or have relocated to stay with relatives and friends. Approximately 24,000 displaced individuals are currently residing in camps in Caracas and La Guaira, a popular tourist area whose economy has been severely impacted by the ongoing crisis.