Venezuela earthquake death toll rises to 6,438 nearly two months after twin quakes

Nearly two months after a pair of powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, the death toll from the disaster has climbed to 6,438, according to the most recent official figures released on August 17. The magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 quakes hit near the country's coast on June 24, causing extensive damage.

Parliament Speaker Jorge Rodriguez announced the updated toll, which surpassed the 6,301 reported just a week prior. Rescue teams and relatives are still searching for people trapped under the rubble, as thousands of survivors continue living in precarious temporary camps.

The earthquakes destroyed at least 190 buildings, including 24,000 homes that became uninhabitable. At least 60,000 homes were affected overall, according to authorities. Despite pledging to provide permanent housing for those impacted, only 335 homes have been made available out of the 4,000 promised by the end of 2026.

Heavy rain in Caracas over the weekend further strained living conditions, damaging some of the tents housing earthquake victims and exposing them to the elements. The rising death toll and ongoing housing shortages are adding pressure on the interim government as rescue and recovery efforts enter their second month.