The number of deaths after the Venezuela earthquake has risen to at least 5,278, according to a new official toll announced on Monday by National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez.
The updated figure includes 70 additional deaths recorded over the previous 24 hours, more than three weeks after two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude struck Venezuela on 24 June, causing widespread destruction, particularly in the northern regions of the country.
The previous official death toll stood at 5,208, while the number of injured remained unchanged at 16,740.
Thousands remain homeless
In La Guaira, rescue teams continue efforts to recover victims from the rubble of collapsed buildings.
More than 23,000 people remain homeless and are living in over 100 temporary shelters, according to authorities.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez pledged on Monday that 4,000 new homes would be delivered to affected residents by December.
“Deliveries will take place every month,” she said during a televised ceremony.
Rodríguez said around 200 families had already received apartments in a social housing complex, describing the moment as “times of joy amid the suffering” of those affected by the disaster.
Housing needs remain significant
The acting president also promised that more than 10,000 additional homes would be delivered during 2027.
Official estimates indicate that Venezuela will need around 25,000 properties to house people left homeless by the disaster.
Authorities said 856 buildings were damaged, while 190 collapsed completely.
Unclear number of missing people
Officials have avoided providing an exact figure for the number of people still missing.
Two days after the earthquake, the United Nations estimated that the number of missing people could have reached as high as 50,000, while other estimates have suggested a figure closer to 10,000.
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