Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Could Reach 10,000 as Rescue Efforts Continue

Caracas:** The death toll from last week’s powerful 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes in Venezuela could rise to as many as 10,000, according to international officials, as rescue operations continue across the devastated regions.

United Nations officials said preparations are underway to procure body bags for up to 10,000 victims amid fears that the final death toll could increase significantly. The **U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)** has also estimated that fatalities could range between 10,000 and 100,000 based on the scale of the disaster.

Local authorities have so far confirmed **1,719 deaths**, while **5,034 people have been injured** and **15,866 residents displaced**. The earthquakes have damaged approximately **2,500 buildings**, causing widespread destruction.

Rescue teams remain active in the affected areas and successfully pulled a **21-year-old man** alive from the rubble **106 hours** after the devastating earthquakes struck.

Meanwhile, the **European Union** has announced more than **$5 million** in emergency assistance for relief efforts. **UNICEF** said around **1.8 million people** affected by the disaster are in urgent need of humanitarian aid.