Death Toll Rises to 3,342 After Dual Earthquakes Devastate Northern Venezuela

The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela at the end of June has risen to 3,342, according to official reports released on Wednesday. The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude and occurring minutes apart on June 24, caused widespread destruction in the La Guaira state and surrounding northern coastal areas. Rescue teams continue to search through the rubble as the number of casualties and injuries grows daily.

Current figures indicate that 16,740 people have been injured with varying severity, and 17,345 residents have been left homeless due to the collapse or severe damage of their homes. Approximately 58,870 buildings were either destroyed or significantly damaged, with the worst impact concentrated along the northern coast. Many displaced individuals are living in temporary camps or on the streets, fearful of aftershocks.

Interim President Delcy Rodríguez described the disaster as "the cruelest natural catastrophe" in Venezuela's history. The humanitarian crisis is deepening amid unstable electrical infrastructure that repeatedly fails, complicating nighttime rescue efforts. Over 12,800 people are officially classified as displaced. Jennifer Moreno Canizales from the United Nations warned that the death toll is expected to continue rising in the coming days as rescue operations proceed.

The ongoing aftershocks and deteriorating conditions have left survivors in distress, with many unable to return to their homes. International rescue teams remain active in the affected zones, striving to locate survivors and provide aid amid challenging circumstances.