Death Toll From Venezuela Earthquakes Rises Above 6,100

The confirmed death toll from the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June has climbed to 6,125, according to National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez.

Rodriguez announced on Monday that more than 61,000 people have received medical treatment following the twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, which struck on June 24. The hardest-hit areas were the coastal state of La Guaira and the capital, Caracas.

The government continues to face criticism over its handling of the disaster, with survivors and families of missing victims accusing authorities of responding too slowly during the critical rescue phase.

Officials also reported that only 16.5 percent of the earthquake debris has been cleared, highlighting the enormous challenge facing ongoing recovery efforts.

The World Bank estimates the earthquakes caused nearly $20 billion in physical damage, raising concerns about how reconstruction will be financed despite international pledges of assistance.

Humanitarian groups have also urged the easing of remaining economic sanctions on Venezuela to speed up the delivery of aid and reconstruction funding as thousands of displaced residents continue to struggle in the aftermath of the disaster.

• Tweet
• Share
• Share
• Share
• Share