The death toll from last month’s back-to-back earthquakes in Venezuela has climbed to 4,829. Officials also confirmed that thousands of people remain injured and displaced.
National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez released the latest figures on Wednesday through a post on X. He said the powerful earthquakes injured 16,740 people across affected areas.
Authorities have continued emergency operations following the disaster. Meanwhile, thousands of families still require shelter and long-term recovery assistance.
Thousands Remain Displaced After Earthquakes
According to Rodriguez, authorities have assisted 128,324 families since the earthquakes struck. Additionally, 106 temporary camps are currently housing 20,857 displaced people.
He said another 17,907 people still lack permanent housing. Furthermore, the earthquakes damaged 856 buildings, including 190 structures that completely collapsed.
Rodriguez stressed that Venezuela requires significant financial resources for reconstruction. He also said recovery efforts must include employment and education programmes for affected communities.
Government Seeks Access to Overseas Assets
Rodriguez said Venezuela has overseas resources that could support rebuilding efforts. However, he noted that international restrictions continue limiting access to those assets.
The United States, the European Union, and other countries-imposed sanctions on Venezuela over the past two decades. Many of those measures remain in effect despite limited recent relief.
Following the earthquakes, Washington temporarily authorised certain transactions related to disaster relief. The exemption allows approved earthquake assistance for a four-month period.
Meanwhile, Vice President Delcy Rodriguez requested the release of Venezuelan gold held by the Bank of England. She also discussed potential financial assistance with the International Monetary Fund.
The Bank of England continues holding about 31 tonnes of Venezuelan gold. The assets remain tied to an ongoing legal dispute in British courts.
