The twin quakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 left more than 5,000 people dead. The high toll is largely attributed to the collapse of numerous buildings with residents trapped inside. Photo by U.S. Department of State/UPI | License Photo
July 18 (UPI) -- The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela has increased to 5,069 people, officials said Friday.
The 7.2- and 7.5-magnitude quakes on June 24 -- the biggest the country had seen in more than a century -- also injured more than 16,740 people.
Jorge Rodriguez, president of the Venezuelan National Assembly, said more than 21,230 people remain in makeshift camps, while 17,907 are without housing.
"The resilience of our people in the temporary camps confirms that Venezuelans are unbreakable," Rodriguez said in a statement. "Together, we are driving the nation's renewal, demonstrating that no adversity can stop the strength of those who build the future with hope."
