Death toll from Venezuela earthquakes climbs to 1,943

Venezuelan authorities announced on Tuesday that the death toll from two devastating earthquakes that struck the northern part of the country last week has increased to 1,943. According to Jorge Rodríguez, president of the National Assembly, 10,571 people have been injured and 28,380 are receiving care in hospitals or temporary camps.

The back-to-back tremors, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, hit Venezuela on the evening of June 24, causing widespread destruction and leaving tens of thousands missing. A strong aftershock on Friday sent residents fleeing into the streets once again.

International rescue teams have joined local efforts. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez stated on Monday that 3,681 rescuers from 30 countries are involved in the search. The international community has also provided over 1,000 tons of supplies, 27 vehicles, and 118 search dogs. As of Tuesday, more than 6,450 people have been found alive, while 13,500 managed to escape on their own.

UNICEF estimates that around 1.8 million people, including 680,000 children, require humanitarian assistance. A preliminary assessment from the United Nations Development Programme puts the cost of direct physical damage at $6.7 billion.