Key facts
- The death toll from Venezuela's twin earthquakes has risen to 3,535.
- Authorities reported 16,740 people injured and 17,854 left homeless.
- The quakes, measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, struck within seconds of each other on June 24.
- At least 12,800 people are staying in 80 shelters across Caracas and La Guaira.
- The United Nations is coordinating aid operations with the government.
The death toll from Venezuela's twin earthquakes has climbed to 3,535, with authorities reporting 16,740 injured and over 17,800 people left homeless more than a week after the disaster struck. The quakes, which measured magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, hit the capital and nearby coastal areas on June 24. Criticism is mounting over the government's response, with some Venezuelans describing it as late and inadequate. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez has defended the government's handling of the crisis and announced the creation of a new military unit for future emergencies. The United Nations is increasing its aid operations in coordination with the government, with a comprehensive needs assessment nearing completion.