Caracas, Venezuela | July 16, 2026
Venezuela Earthquake rescue and recovery efforts continue nearly three weeks after the devastating twin earthquakes struck the South American nation, with the official death toll rising to 4,829, according to the latest update from the country’s National Assembly.
National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez confirmed on Wednesday that the number of fatalities had increased, while the total number of injured remains 16,740. Authorities are continuing one of the country’s largest-ever disaster response operations as thousands remain displaced and emergency teams work to assist survivors.
More Than 63,000 Rescue Personnel Deployed
According to government officials, more than 63,000 emergency responders, military personnel, medical workers, and volunteers remain involved in search-and-rescue operations across the affected regions.
Authorities have established 106 temporary shelters, currently housing 20,857 displaced residents who lost their homes during the disaster.
The rescue mission remains focused on locating survivors, clearing debris, restoring essential services, and providing humanitarian assistance to affected communities.
Over 1,200 Aftershocks Recorded
Seismologists have recorded 1,284 aftershocks since the powerful twin earthquakes struck Venezuela on June 24.
The continued seismic activity has complicated rescue operations and delayed reconstruction efforts, forcing many residents to remain in temporary shelters due to fears of additional structural collapses.
Emergency officials continue to monitor seismic conditions closely.
Worst-Hit Regions Continue to Recover
Government officials said the coastal state of La Guaira suffered the heaviest destruction.
According to previous official figures released by Vice President for Social Affairs Héctor Rodríguez, displaced populations include:
- La Guaira: 10,981 people in shelters
- Caracas: 6,133 people
- Miranda State: 1,323 people
Many communities continue to face severe damage to homes, roads, hospitals, schools, and public infrastructure.
Government Launches Housing Assistance Program
The Venezuelan government has introduced a Unified Housing Registry to identify families affected by the disaster.
Officials said the registry will serve multiple purposes, including:
- Conducting a comprehensive census of displaced families.
- Processing financial assistance.
- Prioritizing permanent housing allocations.
- Supporting reconstruction efforts.
Authorities acknowledged that thousands of families permanently lost their homes and will require long-term government support.
Temporary Housing Planned
Officials announced plans to establish single-family transitional housing camps until permanent homes can be constructed.
The government also intends to repair partially damaged houses wherever possible while accelerating the rebuilding of heavily affected neighborhoods.
The National Assembly is expected to consider amendments to housing and rental laws aimed at helping earthquake victims access affordable housing, loans, and government-backed subsidies.
International Humanitarian Assistance Arrives
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez expressed gratitude to 28 countries that have provided humanitarian assistance following the disaster.
More than 2,000 tons of international relief supplies are currently being sorted and distributed through emergency logistics centers established in Caracas.
The assistance includes:
- Food supplies
- Medical equipment
- Emergency shelter materials
- Hygiene kits
- Essential household items
Rodríguez said the Venezuelan government would ensure transparency in distributing international aid and thanked the global community for its support.
“Venezuela is deeply grateful to every country, government, and people who have extended their support during this tragedy,” Rodríguez said.
Call to Release Frozen National Assets
Government officials also appealed to foreign governments to release Venezuelan financial assets currently frozen under international sanctions.
According to officials, Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has sent formal requests urging governments to allow access to those funds, arguing they are urgently needed for disaster recovery and reconstruction.
Recovery Expected to Take Years
Officials acknowledged that rebuilding damaged cities and restoring normal life will require years of sustained investment.
Authorities are focusing on:
- Permanent housing construction
- Infrastructure rebuilding
- Economic recovery
- Public health services
- Disaster resilience planning
The government emphasized that international cooperation will remain essential as Venezuela works to recover from one of the deadliest natural disasters in its recent history.
Key Highlights
- Death toll rises to 4,829
- 16,740 people injured
- 106 temporary shelters established
- 20,857 displaced residents currently housed
- More than 63,000 rescue personnel deployed
- 1,284 aftershocks recorded since June 24
- Humanitarian assistance received from 28 countries
- Over 2,000 tons of international relief supplies being distributed
