08 July,2026 09:59 AM IST | Caracas | mid-day online correspondent
The powerful earthquakes, measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, caused widespread damage across several areas. Pic/AFP
The death toll from the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela has climbed to 3,685, while 16,740 people have been injured, according to the latest official update released by Venezuelan National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez.
The update, shared through Rodriguez's Telegram channel, said that 17,907 people have been left homeless following the disaster. Authorities continue to assess the scale of destruction caused by the twin earthquakes, which hit the country on June 24.
The powerful earthquakes, measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, caused widespread damage across several areas. Since then, Venezuela has recorded 1,076 aftershocks, adding further challenges for rescue teams and residents in affected regions.
According to officials, emergency teams remain engaged in search and rescue efforts as thousands of people continue to deal with the impact of the disaster.
An earlier official report said that 17,345 people had been displaced due to the earthquakes. Authorities have established 80 temporary camps to provide shelter and assistance to people who lost their homes.
As per the latest update, 29,567 rescue personnel are currently deployed for relief operations, including 3,281 international responders assisting local teams.
Officials said rescue workers are continuing their efforts to locate survivors, while medical teams and volunteers are providing support to injured residents.
Venezuela's acting president Delcy Rodriguez last week declared seven days of national mourning to honour those who lost their lives in the earthquakes.
"In honour of the memory of the victims, I have decided to decree National Mourning for seven (7) days, starting at 6:00 p.m. today," Rodriguez wrote in a statement posted on social media.
She added, "in these moments of profound sadness, we embrace those who suffer from this tragedy and reaffirm our commitment to accompany and protect them."
"Venezuela's soul is torn by the human losses caused by the devastating earthquakes," Rodriguez added.
Authorities said tens of thousands of people remain missing as relief operations continue across earthquake-hit regions.
International aid teams have also joined the humanitarian response. Indian medical teams are providing support to affected communities under Operation Amistad.
Survivors and their families have expressed gratitude for the medical assistance and care provided at the Indian Army's Field Hospital.
Officials said relief operations will continue as authorities focus on providing shelter, healthcare and essential supplies to people impacted by the disaster.
(With inputs from IANS)
