Venezuela earthquake death toll surpasses 5,000

Moscow (ANTARA) - The death toll from the powerful earthquake that struck Venezuela in June has reached 5,069, with more than 21,000 others still displaced, according to the local government on Friday (17/7).

“According to the data, 5,069 people died, 16,740 were injured, and 6,462 people were rescued,” read an official statement from the Venezuelan Government published by National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez.

The government also reported that 17,907 residents remain homeless and 21,210 people are currently staying at 107 temporary shelter locations. The earthquake caused damage to 856 buildings, 190 of which reportedly collapsed completely.

On 24 June, Venezuela was shaken by two earthquakes measuring magnitude 7.2 and 7.5, occurring just 39 seconds apart.

Following the disaster, the Venezuelan Government declared a state of emergency, whilst the international community dispatched rescue teams and humanitarian aid to support handling and recovery efforts in the country.