The death toll from a pair of powerful earthquakes that hit Venezuela in June has climbed above 1,400, according to officials. The twin quakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck within a minute of each other on June 24 and devastated coastal areas north of Caracas, particularly La Guaira state.
National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez reported at least 1,430 deaths and more than 3,200 injuries in the days following the disaster. Some accounts placed the toll slightly higher at 1,450. Thousands more remain missing, with opposition-linked tallies exceeding 50,000 people unaccounted for. The U.S. Geological Survey had warned that fatalities could reach into the tens of thousands.
Rescue operations involved over 1,600 foreign teams alongside local volunteers. International aid, including from the United States, arrived to support efforts amid the country's ongoing economic and infrastructure challenges. The quakes damaged or destroyed hundreds of buildings and left thousands displaced.
Venezuela had already been dealing with political upheaval following the January ouster of former leader Nicolas Maduro. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez has overseen the response. The disaster compounded existing strains on the power grid and basic services.
Damage estimates from the United Nations reached $6.7 billion, or about 6 percent of the nation's GDP. Recovery continues months later, with ongoing needs for shelter, water, and medical care affecting millions.
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