The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela has risen to 235, with over 4,300 people injured and thousands still trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings.
The figures were confirmed by the country’s Health Minister on Friday, who said the majority of the deaths occurred in the northern coastal region of La Guaira.
The country has begun receiving international support and relief packages, including from the United Nations and World Central Kitchen.
At least two major earthquakes hit Venezuela on Wednesday night — the first measuring 7.2 and the second 7.5 — striking just 40 seconds apart.
Interim President Delcy Rodríguez has declared a state of emergency and said Simon Bolivar International Airport in Caracas remains closed due to extensive damage.
Meanwhile, the United States military has started rescue and relief operations.
US Southern Command said it had “directed significant forces to the effort,” including an amphibious transport ship and a warship.
The US State Department also announced $150 million in emergency aid to Venezuela.
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquakes could cause economic losses of up to 7 percent of Venezuela’s GDP, amounting to more than $7.5 billion.
