Delcy Rodríguez decrees national mourning for 7 days for the earthquakes
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, has decreed seven days of national mourning following recent earthquakes.
- The earthquakes, which occurred a week prior, have resulted in a preliminary death toll of nearly 2,000 people.
- The government reaffirms its commitment to supporting and protecting those affected by the tragedy.
Acting President of Venezuela, Delcy Rodríguez, has declared a seven-day period of national mourning starting Wednesday, marking one week since powerful earthquakes struck the northern part of the country. The seismic events have left a preliminary toll of nearly 2,000 fatalities.
Rodríguez announced the mourning period on social media, stating, "Venezuela has its soul torn by the human losses caused by the devastating earthquakes. Today we accompany in pain the families who have lost their loved ones and we raise our prayers for the injured, the missing, and the affected communities." She reaffirmed the government's commitment to accompany and protect Venezuelans affected by the tragedy.
Venezuela has its soul torn by the human losses caused by the devastating earthquakes. Today we accompany in pain the families who have lost their loved ones and we raise our prayers for the injured, the missing, and the affected communities.
The country remains in a phase where hope for finding survivors coexists with the growing evidence of a tragedy of historical proportions. Official figures report 1,943 deaths and 10,571 injuries. Authorities also reported the rescue of 6,461 people alive. Preliminary United Nations estimates suggest around 50,000 people remain missing or unlocated. The most severe devastation is concentrated in La Guaira, particularly in Caraballeda and Catia La Mar, coastal areas with a mix of permanent residences, tourist facilities, and high-density housing.
In these moments of sadness we embrace those who suffer this tragedy and reaffirm our commitment to accompany and protect them.
Originally published by El Nacional in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.