Caracas: The death toll from the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 has risen to 3,889, while 16,740 people have been injured, according to National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez.
Rodriguez said the twin earthquakes have also left 17,907 people homeless, while 6,462 people have been rescued so far. Since the disaster, authorities have recorded 1,142 aftershocks, adding to concerns in the affected regions.
Thousands displaced as rescue efforts continue
Officials said thousands of people remain displaced, with temporary camps established to provide shelter, food and medical assistance to those affected by the disaster.
Earlier official figures had put the number of displaced people at 17,345, but the latest update indicates the humanitarian situation continues to worsen as assessments continue.
International aid reaches affected areas
Acting President Delcy Rodriguez thanked 28 countries for providing humanitarian assistance to Venezuela following the disaster.
After inspecting a relief collection centre in Caracas, she said more than 2,000 tonnes of international aid are being sorted and distributed to temporary camps housing earthquake survivors.
Rodriguez said Venezuela was grateful for the global support and pledged that aid from each country would be transparently delivered to those in need.
Seven-day national mourning declared
Last week, the acting president declared seven days of national mourning in memory of those who lost their lives in the earthquakes.
She said the government remains committed to supporting affected families and rebuilding the devastated areas as rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts continue across the country.