International

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; June 30, 2026 : The death toll from the devastating earthquake in Venezuela has risen to 1,719, while a large number of people remain missing as search and rescue operations continue in the disaster-hit regions. Authorities confirmed that rescue efforts are still underway even five days after the catastrophic quake struck the country.

Official statement issued by the Venezuelan government, the scale of destruction caused by the earthquake has been massive, with rescuers continuing to search through rubble in the hope of finding survivors trapped under collapsed structures.

The powerful twin earthquakes, measuring magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, struck earlier in the week, causing widespread devastation across several regions. Officials reported that nearly 800 multi-storey buildings collapsed completely or were severely damaged during the tremors.

Government data further indicates that a total of 774 buildings have suffered significant structural damage, while at least 189 buildings have completely collapsed due to the impact of the quakes. Entire neighbourhoods have been reduced to rubble, leaving thousands of families displaced and searching for missing loved ones.

Emergency response teams, including rescue workers and disaster management personnel, are continuing intensive operations across affected areas. Heavy machinery and search equipment are being used to clear debris as authorities race against time to locate survivors still believed to be trapped beneath the wreckage.

Despite ongoing efforts, officials have acknowledged that thousands of people remain unaccounted for, raising concerns that the final death toll could rise further in the coming days. The government has intensified relief operations as international assistance and support measures are being coordinated to assist in the large-scale recovery effort.