Venezuela Quakes Claim 6,125 Lives, 17,000 Injured
The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June has risen to 6,125, with nearly 17,000 people injured. National Assembly Chief Jorge Rodriguez announced the updated figure, which comes weeks after the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude quakes caused widespread destruction, mostly in the coastal state of La Guaira. Rescue teams and family members are still searching for victims and loved ones, with around 1,400 people reported missing.
La Guaira Governor Jose Alejandro Teran has stated that nearly 200 buildings collapsed, and authorities have classified over 16,200 structures as unsafe, prompting many to leave. Almost 24,000 people in La Guaira and Caracas are living in makeshift shelters following the earthquakes. In response to the disaster, Venezuelan lawmakers have unanimously approved a new rental law aimed at helping displaced quake victims, which is expected to benefit around 400,000 homes.
The government has pledged to provide 4,000 homes to quake victims by the end of the year, with plans to exceed 10,000 in 2027. Interim leader Delcy Rodriguez described the new rental law as a “win-win” situation for tenants and property owners. The passage of the law repeals anti-rental legislation passed by former leftist Chavista administrations.
The situation in Venezuela remains dire, with thousands still living in makeshift shelters and many more affected by the earthquakes. The government’s efforts to provide aid and housing to those affected are ongoing, but the road to recovery will be long and challenging.
This latest development comes after the death toll from the earthquakes had previously stood at 5,546, and the new figure highlights the devastating impact of the disaster on the people of Venezuela.
