The death toll from Venezuela’s devastating twin earthquakes has risen to 2,954, according to official figures released on Saturday, as rescue teams gradually scale back search operations for survivors.
The powerful 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes struck the South American nation on June 24, causing widespread destruction and leaving thousands homeless.
The worst-hit area was La Guaira, north of the capital, Caracas, where numerous residential buildings collapsed and entire communities were devastated.
Authorities said more than 16,000 people have been displaced, while hospitals continue to struggle with the large number of injured victims. Concerns have also been raised about possible disease outbreaks in overcrowded temporary shelters.
Ten days after the disaster, international rescue teams have begun concluding their operations as hopes of finding additional survivors diminish. Search-and-rescue experts note that the likelihood of survival typically drops significantly after the first 72 hours following a major earthquake.
Interim President Delcy Rodríguez honoured international rescue teams for their efforts, acknowledging the immense suffering experienced by affected families.
Despite the ongoing recovery efforts, many residents have criticised the government’s initial response, claiming that relatives, neighbours and volunteers carried out rescue attempts before official assistance arrived.
Authorities have defended their actions, stating that thousands of military personnel, emergency workers and government officials were deployed to support rescue and relief operations.
As recovery efforts continue, many families remain focused on locating and recovering the bodies of loved ones trapped beneath collapsed structures, while humanitarian agencies work to provide shelter, food and medical assistance to survivors.
Officials say damaged buildings are beginning to be demolished in some areas, while identification and burial processes continue for victims of one of Latin America’s deadliest earthquake disasters in recent history.