Key facts
- The death toll from Venezuela's twin earthquakes has risen to 3,342.
- 16,470 people have been injured.
- 17,345 people are now homeless.
- Interim President Delcy Rodriguez defended the government's response to the disaster.
- A new military unit will be created to handle emergencies.
- International rescue teams are concluding their operations.
The death toll from Venezuela's twin earthquakes has risen to 3,342, according to figures released by the Venezuelan information ministry. The number of injured stands at 16,470, and 17,345 people have been left homeless.
Interim President Delcy Rodriguez defended the government's actions following the disaster, acknowledging public frustration over what many have described as a delayed and inadequate response. She stated that security forces were immediately deployed and announced the formation of a new military unit dedicated to handling emergencies and disasters.
The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, struck the coast of Venezuela, causing widespread destruction, particularly in the La Guaira region. International rescue teams, including those from the U.S., have begun to wind down their search operations, with some teams concluding their efforts after finding no further signs of life. Despite the critical window for rescues typically closing after 72 hours, some individuals have been found alive days after the initial shocks. Tens of thousands are still reported missing, with the UN estimating as many as 50,000 unaccounted for.