Venezuela earthquake death toll climbs to 920, over 50,000 missing

The provisional death toll from the powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela has dramatically risen to 920, according to National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez. Speaking on state television on Friday, June 26, Rodriguez also stated that over 50,000 individuals are now reported missing. This update follows earlier figures, including 235 deaths confirmed by Health Minister Carlos Alvarado on Thursday, and a previous count of 589. The state of La Guaira, north of the capital Caracas, continues to be the most severely affected area by the magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 tremors, described as the most violent in 126 years. Search and rescue operations are ongoing amidst widespread destruction, particularly in La Guaira, where the Maiquetia - Simon Bolivar International Airport remains closed. International assistance, including aid from the United States, France, and the Pope, continues to mobilize.

Sources: Le Monde