A powerful twin earthquake that struck Venezuela on June 24 has left at least 4,930 people dead and around 50,000 missing, according to the latest update announced by lawmaker Jorge Rodríguez on Thursday. The Al Jazeera report said about 17,000 people were injured, and more than 21,000 are currently living in temporary shelters. Rescue operations have continued in the affected areas, though locals have criticized the government’s slow response.

Displaced residents told Al Jazeera that volunteers and ordinary citizens began rescue efforts before the government’s presence was visible. International rescue teams that arrived earlier have now departed, with current efforts focused on delivering humanitarian aid to survivors. Many displaced families continue to struggle with limited assistance.

Experts cited in the report said U.S. economic sanctions imposed since 2015 have made Venezuela’s disaster response more difficult. Economist Mark Weisbrot noted that about $11 billion in Venezuelan assets remain frozen abroad. Fourteen U.S. Democratic lawmakers have urged the White House to ease sanctions, arguing they are obstructing relief and reconstruction efforts. The United Nations estimates rebuilding could cost around $37 billion.