NEW DELHI: The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela has risen to 3,535, authorities announced, more than a week after the devastating disaster hit the capital, Caracas, and nearby coastal areas.

Top lawmaker Jorge Rodriguez said the latest official figures show that 16,740 people have been injured, while 17,854 remain homeless following the powerful earthquakes on June 24. The two quakes, measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, struck within seconds of each other, causing widespread destruction.

The updated casualty figures highlight the scale of the disaster, particularly in Caracas and the coastal region of La Guaira, which suffered the heaviest damage. The government's response has come under increasing criticism as rescue, relief, and recovery efforts continue.

According to Venezuela's social vice presidency, at least 12,800 displaced residents are currently being accommodated in 80 emergency shelters across Caracas and La Guaira.