Venezuela earthquake toll worsens: Death toll reaches 2,645

Two devastating earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude that occurred in Venezuela on June 24 continue to cause deep wounds in the country. Search and rescue efforts launched in the earthquake's epicenter and areas where it was felt intensely are continuing with great dedication to reach citizens trapped under the rubble. However, considering the elapsed time and the scale of the damage, the magnitude of the disaster is becoming clearer with every passing hour, and unfortunately, the number of lost lives is showing a serious increase.

In the latest official statements by the country's administration, new very sad figures regarding the human cost of this natural disaster were shared. Venezuela Parliament President Jorge Rodriguez announced that according to the latest information shared with the public, the total number of those who lost their lives in the earthquake rose to 2,645. Along with the increase in casualties, the number of injured has reached a concerning level; it was reported that the number of injured is 12,666, and it is understood that intense efforts are being made for the health systems to cope with this heavy burden.

Detailed information was also provided regarding the on-site operations conducted in the disaster zone. In the statement, it was noted that search and rescue teams from the international arena, as well as local teams, participated in the efforts, and as a result of this joint work, 6,462 people have been rescued alive from the rubble or danger zones so far. However, the physical destruction caused by the earthquake has brought about a social crisis by leaving thousands of people homeless; it was stated that approximately 15,050 people are homeless and the need for emergency shelter is at its peak.

Damage assessment studies conducted by expert inspection teams revealed how heavily the earthquake affected structures. Jorge Rodriguez explained that the total number of buildings affected by the event was 885, but the conditions of these structures varied. The much graver situation was the determination that 189 of these examined buildings had completely collapsed and became unusable. This high rate of destruction serves as evidence of why the loss of life was so high.

The condition of the remaining buildings continues to raise safety concerns and is being examined meticulously. In the statement, it was noted that light and moderate levels of damage were detected in other buildings, but detailed technical inspections by relevant institutions would be conducted regarding the decision on whether these buildings are habitable. This process is of great importance for the reconstruction of damaged buildings and for measures to be taken against future risks. With both loss of life and building destruction, Venezuela is going through a difficult process to heal the wounds of the tremors.