Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Nears 3,000

Venezuela’s twin earthquakes that struck the western region on Saturday have claimed nearly 3,000 lives, according to updated official figures released by the government. The 7.0‑magnitude main shock followed a 6.8‑magnitude aftershock within minutes, collapsing buildings and infrastructure across the states of Táchira and Mérida.

Rescue teams, which have been operating for more than 48 hours, are now winding down intensive search efforts as they focus on locating survivors in the rubble. Despite the reduction in active operations, tens of thousands of residents remain unaccounted for, and authorities continue to urge families to report missing relatives. The Venezuelan Red Cross and international aid agencies have coordinated relief supplies and medical assistance to the hardest‑hit communities.

The disaster has highlighted the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity and the need for improved emergency preparedness. While the death toll rises, the government and international partners remain committed to supporting the affected population and conducting thorough investigations into the causes and impacts of the earthquakes.