Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Reaches 5,546

The death toll from the devastating double earthquake that struck northern Venezuela one month ago has climbed to 5,546, officials announced Friday. The latest update from National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez included an additional 148 fatalities, bringing the total number of injured to 16,740.

The powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, struck on June 24, causing widespread destruction. According to the official figures, nearly 18,000 people lost their homes, with over 23,000 individuals currently housed in 107 temporary camps. The disaster also affected 856 buildings, with 190 completely collapsing. Since the initial tremors, approximately 1,500 aftershocks have been recorded.

In response to the crisis, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) reported assisting over 100,000 people affected by the earthquakes. The WFP has provided various forms of aid, including hot meals, ready-to-eat rations, and electronic vouchers where markets are functional, allowing families to prioritize their needs. The organization is seeking $80 million to sustain and expand its operations, aiming to reach half a million people in the next two months.

Earlier this week, the government began delivering the first permanent housing units to some of the affected families. The handover ceremony in Caracas was attended by Delcy Rodríguez, the acting president, and her brother, Jorge Rodríguez. Despite these efforts, the scale of the devastation remains immense, with ongoing needs for shelter, food, and long-term recovery support.