Death toll from Venezuela earthquakes rises past 6,000

The death toll from the recent earthquakes in Venezuela has surpassed the 6,000 mark, according to Venezuela's National Assembly Chief. The twin 7.2 and 7.5-magnitude quakes struck on June 24, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. Nearly 200 buildings collapsed, most notably in the coastal state of La Guaira, north of Caracas.

The previous death toll stood at 5,546, while over 17,000 people were injured in the tremors. Rescue efforts and family members have continued to search the rubble for survivors since the earthquakes struck. Local media reports indicate that La Guaira Governor José Alejandro Terán believes around 1,400 people remain missing, although the government has not officially confirmed this number, with projections suggesting it could be as high as 10,000.

In addition to the 190 buildings destroyed, authorities have classified 6,433 structures as high-risk and another 9,866 as restricted housing due to the dangers they pose to residents. Nearly 24,000 people in La Guaira and Caracas are currently residing in makeshift shelters following the earthquakes. Recently, Venezuelan politicians approved a law that streamlines the process of renting properties, aiming to assist those displaced by the quakes.

To become law, the measure must be enacted by interim leader Delcy Rodríguez. Rodríguez estimates that around 400,000 homes could benefit from this law, with the government expecting the number to exceed 10,000 by 2027.