Venezuela Earthquake Toll Exceeds 4,800 Dead

The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 has surpassed 4,800, according to the latest figures released by Parliament Speaker Jorge Rodríguez. The official count now stands at least 4,829 fatalities, with 16,740 individuals injured and 17,907 left homeless.

This updated toll represents an increase from the previous official figure of 4,734 deaths. Authorities have not provided a specific number for the missing, though in the immediate aftermath of the devastating quakes, the UN estimated that as many as 50,000 people could be unaccounted for.

The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, struck the country within 39 seconds of each other. They caused immense devastation across northern Venezuela, impacting the capital, Caracas, and its surrounding areas. The neighboring state of La Guaira was also severely affected, with thousands of earthquake survivors now residing in makeshift camps.

The affected regions experienced catastrophic damage, with infrastructure severely compromised. The scale of destruction has left a significant portion of the population displaced, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian aid and long-term recovery efforts.