The death toll from the powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela has risen to 235, while more than 4,300 people have sustained injuries, according to the country’s health authorities.
Speaking on state broadcaster Venezolana de Televisión, Health Minister Carlos Alvarado said hospitals across the country had received approximately 235 victims who were either dead on arrival or died shortly after being admitted.
“Unfortunately, we received around 235 patients without vital signs, or they died after reaching our medical facilities,” Alvarado said.
He added that medical teams have treated more than 4,300 injured people as emergency response and rescue operations continue in affected areas.
Authorities are still assessing the full extent of the destruction caused by the disaster, warning that the number of casualties could increase as search teams continue to comb through collapsed buildings and debris.
The twin earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday local time, registering magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, according to the United States Geological Survey.
Meanwhile, the United Nations has appealed for urgent international assistance, saying Venezuela will require a coordinated large-scale humanitarian response to support rescue efforts and recovery from the disaster.