Venezuela earthquake death toll surpasses 5,000 as IMF releases $346 million for reconstruction

Official figures released in late July confirmed that the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on 24 June killed 5,069 people, injured 16,740 and left 17,907 homeless. More than 21,000 survivors are being housed in 107 temporary camps, and aid has reached 128,324 affected families.

The interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, announced that Venezuela will draw $346 million (about R$1.77 billion) from its own International Monetary Fund reserve tranche to fund housing, infrastructure repair and other reconstruction needs. The IMF’s managing director confirmed the release, noting it was taken from the Fund’s Special Drawing Rights holdings.

International assistance has also been mobilised, including a €20 million package from the European Union and support from United Nations agencies. A review of the emergency response highlighted delays in military deployment during the first critical hours, prompting calls for improved disaster‑preparedness procedures.

Reconstruction work has begun, with 49% of inspected buildings in La Guaira declared safe, 28% marked for repairs and 22% slated for possible demolition or relocation. Around 659 families will benefit directly from ongoing repairs in the Brisas de Maiquetía towers.