Nearly 6.8 Million People May Be Affected by Venezuela Earthquakes UN

The United Nations has estimated that nearly 6.8 million people could be affected by the devastating twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, as humanitarian agencies intensify emergency relief efforts across the country.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) disclosed on Saturday that its analysis of available population and damage data indicates that up to 6.76 million people may have been impacted by the disaster, including nearly two million residents of the capital, Caracas.

The estimate follows powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, which struck on Wednesday, leaving widespread destruction across several communities.

Authorities say the national death toll has risen to 920, while thousands remain trapped beneath collapsed buildings, particularly in the coastal city of La Guaira, north of Caracas.

United Nations humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher also disclosed that more than 50,000 people remain missing following the disaster.

According to the IOM, satellite mapping conducted in partnership with Microsoft AI for Good Lab revealed that about 31.5 per cent of buildings in Catia La Mar suffered varying degrees of damage.

The agency said the assessment is helping humanitarian workers identify the hardest-hit communities and prioritise the delivery of life-saving assistance while detailed ground assessments continue.

“The first hours and days after a disaster are decisive. They shape everything that follows,” IOM Director General Amy Pope said.

She noted that emergency supplies prepositioned in Caracas are already being deployed, while the organisation is working with the Venezuelan government and humanitarian partners to provide emergency shelter, relief materials and protection services.

Pope warned that displacement is expected to rise significantly in a country already facing a prolonged humanitarian crisis before the earthquakes.

“A swift response is essential as we deliver life-saving assistance and support the people of Venezuela through the difficult days and months ahead,” she said.

The IOM said affected families urgently require emergency shelter, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, healthcare and protection services after losing homes and livelihoods.

The agency added that emergency relief items stored in Caracas are being prepared for immediate distribution to communities with the greatest needs.

It also appealed to the international community to provide urgent humanitarian support, stressing that timely assistance would save lives, reduce suffering and help affected communities begin the long process of recovery.