The death toll from Venezuela’s twin earthquakes has risen to 3,535, with nearly 17,000 people injured since the June 24 disaster, authorities said on Monday.
National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez said around 6,500 people have been rescued, while 17,854 remain homeless and nearly 18,000 have been displaced.
Officials said the earthquakes damaged more than 850 buildings, with 190 collapsing, and disrupted operations at the country’s main international airport. An opposition-backed estimate says more than 30,000 people remain unaccounted for.
Acting President Delcy Rodriguez said efforts were underway to restore commercial flights at Maiquetia International Airport through a parallel runway as soon as possible.