Venezuela Quake Death Toll Nears 3,000

Updated official figures showed the death toll from Venezuela's devastating June 24 twin earthquakes rising to 2,954, making it one of the hemisphere's deadliest disasters.

International rescue teams have begun winding down search operations, though many families are still digging through rubble on their own.

The government has pushed back against accusations of a slow and inadequate response, but in hard-hit communities volunteers are filling the gap.

Officials warned the final toll is expected to be much higher as hospitals remain overwhelmed and thousands are homeless.