The number of people killed in the devastating earthquake that struck Venezuela has climbed to more than 5,000, while the number of injured has exceeded 16,000, according to the latest official figures.
The catastrophe is regarded as one of the country’s deadliest natural disasters in recent years.
Search and rescue teams remain on the ground, working to locate survivors and recover victims trapped beneath the debris of collapsed buildings.
However, the operation has been hampered by the widespread destruction across the affected regions, with damaged roads, disrupted communication networks, and crippled essential services making relief efforts more difficult.
The Venezuelan government has declared a state of emergency in several of the worst-hit states and mobilized military personnel, civil defense teams, and ambulances to strengthen emergency response operations.
Temporary shelters have also been established to house thousands of displaced families whose homes were destroyed by the quake.
Humanitarian organizations, both local and international, have begun delivering emergency assistance, including food, clean water, medicines, and other medical supplies to affected communities. Officials have expressed concern that the death toll could continue to rise as rescuers gain access to the hardest-hit locations.
Meanwhile, several countries and international organizations have pledged humanitarian support and are closely monitoring the unfolding disaster. Authorities have also cautioned residents about the risk of aftershocks in the coming days, urging them to observe safety precautions and avoid entering damaged structures.
