Venezuela earthquake death toll rises above 4,100

Official figures show that the twin earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela on 24 June have killed 4,118 people and injured 16,740. The disaster has left 17,907 people without homes, of whom 17,266 are living in 89 temporary camps, while 641 remain unaccounted for.

Humanitarian response includes assistance to 86,794 families, distribution of 9,766 tonnes of food and 13.9 million litres of water. Security forces have deployed 30,076 military and police personnel, supported by 29,843 volunteers. Authorities report 856 buildings damaged, with 190 completely collapsed.

Since the main shocks, 1,171 aftershocks have been recorded; the latest, a magnitude 3.9 tremor, caused no additional casualties. International agencies estimate economic losses at $37 billion – about 43 % of Venezuela’s GDP – and warn that up to 6.8 million people may need shelter, water, sanitation or medical aid.