Key facts
- The death toll from two earthquakes in Venezuela has risen to 5,069.
- The earthquakes damaged 856 buildings, including 190 that collapsed.
- Over 20,000 people have been displaced and are living in temporary camps.
- Venezuela has secured €302 million from the IMF for reconstruction.
- The United States has provided more than $300 million in humanitarian aid.
The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 has risen to 5,069, as rescue efforts continue to clear debris. The disaster, described as the "most brutal natural catastrophe" in the country's history by Interim President Delcy Rodríguez, also damaged 856 buildings, with 190 collapsing entirely. Hundreds of other structures, including bridges and roads, were affected, particularly in the northern coastal state of La Guaira.
More than 20,000 people have been displaced, many residing in overcrowded temporary camps where aid organizations have raised concerns about access to safe drinking water and sanitation. Venezuela has managed to unlock €302 million (approximately $346 million) in previously frozen resources from the International Monetary Fund to support recovery and reconstruction. The IMF and World Bank resumed relations with Venezuela in April following the US military intervention that removed Nicolás Maduro from power in January, having frozen ties since 2019. The United States has also contributed over $300 million (€262 million) in humanitarian assistance.