Venezuela’s earthquake death toll has risen above 5,000, authorities said on Saturday, as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) released $346 million to support reconstruction efforts. Thousands remain displaced following the devastating twin earthquakes that struck the country last month.
The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes struck within one minute of each other on June 24, devastating the coastal state of La Guaira, north of Caracas. National Assembly chief Jorge Rodriguez said the disaster has claimed 5,069 lives, while the number of injured remains at 16,740.
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According to officials, most fatalities occurred in La Guaira, one of the hardest-hit regions. Rodriguez said many of the injured have already been discharged from hospitals, although emergency services continue recovery and relief operations in affected communities.
Interim President Delcy Rodriguez announced that Venezuela had accessed $346 million from the IMF to finance reconstruction projects. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva confirmed the release of the funds, stating they were drawn from Venezuela’s reserve tranche to address urgent humanitarian needs.
The disaster has left around 20,000 people homeless, with many now living in overcrowded temporary camps. Aid agencies have raised concerns about limited access to clean water and adequate sanitation, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.
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Venezuela holds approximately 3.568 billion Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) at the IMF, equivalent to about $5.1 billion. Access to these resources had previously been restricted because the IMF did not recognise Nicolas Maduro as the country’s president.
The IMF and the World Bank resumed relations with Venezuela in April after years of suspension. The latest funding is expected to support ongoing recovery efforts as authorities continue rebuilding infrastructure and assisting communities affected by the earthquakes.