Death Toll from Twin Earthquakes in Venezuela Rises to 589

Photo: Collected

News Desk: The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela has surged to 589, according to the latest reports. Authorities have confirmed that at least 17 foreign nationals are among the victims. Meanwhile, 2,980 people have been injured, many after being trapped beneath collapsed buildings or sustaining other injuries. In response to the devastating disaster, Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has declared a nationwide state of emergency.

According to the BBC, citing information from the foreign ministries of several countries on Friday (June 26), the updated death toll is significantly higher than the previous official figures, which reported 235 fatalities and 4,300 injuries.

Venezuela's capital and largest city, Caracas, was transformed within just 40 seconds. Two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck in quick succession, reducing large parts of the capital to rubble. Hundreds of high-rise buildings collapsed during the disaster.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has warned that the death toll could exceed 10,000, estimating a 44% probability of such an outcome. It also projected a 30% chance that fatalities could surpass 100,000, highlighting the catastrophic scale of the disaster.

The earthquakes completely disrupted the country's gas and electricity supply. Caracas International Airport has been closed, while train and metro services have been suspended. In addition, all educational institutions across the country have cancelled classes for the remainder of the week.

According to the BBC, the 17 foreign nationals confirmed dead include nine Portuguese citizens, three Spaniards, two Brazilians, two Chinese nationals, and one Italian citizen.

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Portugal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that 56 Portuguese citizens remain missing or out of contact following the disaster.

Spain's Foreign Ministry stated that 99 Spanish nationals are still unaccounted for, while at least four others are believed to be trapped beneath collapsed buildings.

The Chinese Embassy in Caracas confirmed the deaths of two Chinese citizens and urged other Chinese nationals living in Venezuela to remain alert for aftershocks and the possibility of additional seismic events.

Italy's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that a 50-year-old dual Italian-Venezuelan citizen was killed when a building collapsed in La Guaira, Venezuela.

Addressing the nation during the crisis, Acting President Delcy Rodríguez expressed her condolences, saying:

"At this deeply painful moment for our nation, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to all families who have tragically lost loved ones. We also ask for the full cooperation of the public. Buildings that have suffered severe structural damage must be evacuated immediately. A nationwide state of emergency has been declared to ensure everyone's safety."

The country's interim government now faces the enormous challenge of continuing rescue and search operations amid the widespread devastation. Teams from the International Red Cross and the United Nations have already been deployed to help coordinate relief efforts.

Spain has dispatched eight specialized search-and-rescue teams and has provided an initial US$1.1 million in humanitarian assistance through the Red Cross. The United States, Colombia, India, Chile, and several other friendly nations have also sent emergency rescue teams, medical supplies, and humanitarian aid to support Venezuela's recovery efforts.