Rescue Operations Continue as Venezuela Earthquake Deaths Near 5,000
CARACAS – July 16 – The twin seismic events of June 24 have raised the confirmed death toll in Venezuela to 4,829, with 16,740 people reported injured, per a statement from National Assembly President George Rodriguez.
The government has established 106 temporary camps that are currently sheltering 20,857 victims, while more than 63,000 rescue workers remain active in search and recovery missions throughout the nation.
Since the primary shocks, seismic monitoring has logged 1,284 aftershocks, indicating continuous tectonic activity. On July 11, Vice‑President of Social Affairs Hector Rodriguez announced on Telegram that 18,437 individuals have been relocated to emergency shelters: La Guaira (10,981), Caracas (6,133) and Miranda (1,323).
Official data from central Venezuela, where the 7.2‑ and 7.5‑magnitude earthquakes struck, show 4,118 deaths and 16,740 injuries. To coordinate assistance, the authorities have launched a Unified Housing Registry, a database that will match census information with financial aid for quake survivors.
President Rodriguez called for swift measures to construct permanent housing for families that have lost everything, while also repairing homes that suffered minor damage. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez said transitional single‑family housing camps will be set up until solid permanent dwellings are completed.
The National Assembly plans to amend rental law and expand credit and subsidy programs to help affected families purchase new homes.
In light of U.S. and other international sanctions, Rodriguez noted that Interim President Delcy Rodriguez has written to several governments requesting the release of Venezuelan assets held abroad to fund relief activities.
Delcy Rodriguez thanked 28 donor countries for their humanitarian contributions. After inspecting a relief collection centre in Caracas, she confirmed that over 2,000 tonnes of international aid have been sorted for distribution to temporary shelters.
"Venezuela deeply appreciates the solidarity of the global community," she said, adding that transparent handling of aid will demonstrate to donors how their assistance is being used. "Our priority now is reconstruction and a resilient future for all citizens."