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THE death toll from twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June has risen to 6,438, according to the latest official figures released on Aug 17, nearly two months after the disaster.
Parliament Speaker Jorge Rodriguez announced the latest toll, up from 6,301 reported last week, as relatives and rescue teams continued searching for people still missing beneath the rubble.
The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes struck near Venezuela’s coast on June 24, destroying at least 190 buildings and leaving a widespread trail of devastation.
AFP cited authorities saying at least 60,000 homes were affected, including 24,000 that were rendered uninhabitable.
Thousands of survivors remain in temporary camps while awaiting permanent accommodation, with conditions becoming increasingly difficult.
Heavy rain in Caracas over the weekend destroyed some of the tents being used to house earthquake victims, further exposing survivors to the elements.
Interim President Delcy Rodriguez’s government has pledged to provide permanent housing for those affected by the disaster.
So far, however, only 335 homes have been made available out of the 4,000 promised by the end of 2026.
The rising death toll and continuing housing shortages have added to pressure on the government as rescue and recovery efforts enter their second month. - August 18, 2026
