Venezuela quake toll rises to 2,295; thousands injured and displaced
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Caracas: The death toll from the powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 has risen to 2,295, and 11,267 people have been reported injured, National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez said Wednesday.
Rodríguez, who is leading the command centre coordinating temporary shelters, said authorities were also counting 12,841 people affected by the disaster. Rescue teams and volunteers — more than 4,000 personnel in total — have saved 6,461 people since the tremors, he said, citing an update reported by Xinhua.
Officials have registered 25 temporary camps to house displaced residents: 13 in La Guaira, eight in Caracas, two in Miranda, and one each in Carabobo and Yaracuy. Authorities are working to equip the camps and relocate affected families, and Rodríguez urged health workers, security personnel and firefighters to register on the Patria platform to assist with housing and relief efforts.
Venezuela has recorded 782 aftershocks since June 24, though their frequency and intensity have declined, Rodríguez added.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez declared seven days of national mourning starting at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday in tribute to the victims, saying the country “embraces those who suffer” and pledging government support for those affected.
(Inputs from IANS)