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Devastating Quakes Leave Thousands Dead, Homeless in Venezuela
The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 has risen to 4,333, National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez announced on Saturday, as rescue and recovery operations continue across affected areas.
Rodriguez confirmed that 315 victims remain unidentified, while the number of injured stands at 16,740. Rescue teams have pulled 6,462 survivors from the rubble, but approximately 17,000 people have been left homeless following the devastating tremors.
Widespread Destruction and Displacement
The earthquakes caused significant damage to infrastructure, with 856 buildings affected and 190 either completely destroyed or suffering major structural collapses. Government estimates indicate approximately 25,000 homes are needed for displaced families.
Authorities have identified nearly 40 plots of land covering approximately 584,000 square metres for new housing projects in Osma and Chuspa. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez is set to distribute the first 200 homes to affected families next week.
Ongoing Rescue Operations
Despite the mounting death toll, Rodriguez emphasized that search efforts continue with rescue teams remaining hopeful of finding survivors.
“As long as there is life, there is hope,” he said, noting that one or two sites remain active where teams are still searching for people trapped under rubble.
Government Response
The Venezuelan government faces immense challenges in providing adequate shelter and support for the displaced population. The scale of destruction has overwhelmed local resources, with recovery operations expected to continue for weeks or months.
Authorities have not yet provided a timeline for completing housing projects or fully restoring affected communities, as the nation grapples with one of its deadliest natural disasters in recent history.
