Devastating Earthquakes Leave 2,595 Dead in Venezuela, National Mourning Declared

Venezuela's Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has announced that the death toll from the recent earthquakes has risen to 2,595, while more than 12,000 people have been injured. She also confirmed that 189 buildings across the country have been destroyed as a result of the disaster. Rodríguez, who is also leading the command center responsible for establishing temporary relief camps, had earlier urged healthcare workers, security personnel, and firefighters to register on the Patria platform to help address the housing needs of people affected by the earthquakes. She said that 25 temporary relief camps are currently operational across the country. These include 13 camps in La Guaira, eight in Caracas, two in Miranda, one in Carabobo, and one in Yaracuy. According to Rodríguez, authorities are working rapidly to prepare the camps and relocate affected residents. She also stated that since June 24, Venezuela has recorded 782 aftershocks, although their frequency and intensity have gradually decreased. Meanwhile, the Acting President has declared seven days of national mourning in memory of those who lost their lives in the powerful earthquakes that struck the country on June 24. In a statement posted on social media on Wednesday (local time), Rodríguez said the national mourning period would begin at 6:00 p.m. She stated, "In these moments of profound sorrow, we stand with those affected by this tragedy and reaffirm our commitment to support and protect them." Rodríguez also said that "the spirit of Venezuela is grieving the human losses caused by the devastating earthquakes." Last week, two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.5 and 7.2 in magnitude struck north of Caracas. Authorities said that thousands of people remain missing as rescue and relief operations continue.