The Venezuelan government has released an updated official assessment of the devastation caused by the powerful earthquakes that struck the country last month, revealing a sharp rise in casualties and highlighting the scale of ongoing rescue and relief operations.
According to the latest situation report issued by the Ministry of People’s Power for Communication and Information, the death toll has climbed to 2,645, while 12,666 people have been injured. Rescue teams have so far saved 6,462 individuals from affected areas.
The updated figures come days after Venezuela declared a nationwide state of emergency following two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, which struck within seconds of each other on the evening of June 24. The back-to-back quakes caused widespread destruction, flattening homes, damaging critical infrastructure and forcing thousands of families from their homes.
The latest official update also noted that 890 aftershocks have been recorded since the disaster, underscoring the continuing challenges facing rescue workers and affected communities.
The government said humanitarian assistance has reached 86,117 families, while 15,050 people remain homeless due to the disaster. The earthquakes have also caused extensive damage to infrastructure, with 885 buildings affected and 189 structures completely collapsed.
Relief operations continue on a massive scale. Officials said 9,486 tonnes of food and 78,478 food packages have been distributed to affected communities, while medical teams have treated 20,909 patients.
The response effort has also received international support, with 3,305 international rescue personnel assisting operations. Within the country, 29,567 security and emergency personnel have been deployed, backed by 25,846 registered volunteers.
Authorities further reported that 453,326 litres of water have been distributed and 59 temporary camps have been established to shelter displaced residents.