The United Nations and humanitarian partners are increasing emergency assistance in Venezuela following two powerful earthquakes that caused widespread destruction across the country. A new UN assessment estimates that direct physical damage from the disaster has reached around $37 billion.
The earthquakes, measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, struck north-central Venezuela on 24 June, occurring just 39 seconds apart. The estimated damage includes approximately $24 billion in losses to buildings such as homes, schools, hospitals, businesses, and public facilities, along with around $13 billion in infrastructure damage.
Telecommunications infrastructure suffered the largest losses within the infrastructure sector, followed by energy systems and roads. The current estimate is based on risk modelling and does not yet include wider economic impacts, service disruptions, emergency response costs, or future reconstruction expenses, meaning the total impact could increase further.
International search and rescue operations remain active near the earthquake’s epicentre in La Guaira, with more than 70 teams and over 2,300 personnel working alongside Venezuelan authorities. As the chances of finding survivors decrease, humanitarian agencies are shifting focus towards providing essential support, including healthcare, shelter, clean water, sanitation, and logistical assistance.
Children are among the groups most affected by the disaster. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) estimates that around 650,000 people, including 234,000 children, will require humanitarian assistance. Damage to schools has disrupted education for thousands of students, with many facilities in the Capital District reporting significant impacts.
UNICEF has deployed emergency teams and delivered essential supplies, including medical equipment, water and sanitation materials, and household items. The agency has launched an appeal for $52 million to support healthcare, nutrition, child protection, safe water access, and education services for affected communities.
According to humanitarian officials, the Venezuelan government is leading the national response, focusing on assisting displaced families and addressing urgent needs. More than 79 temporary camps have been established in stadiums and sports facilities to provide shelter and emergency support for people who lost their homes.
UN agencies are already supporting several temporary accommodation sites by providing healthcare services, mental health assistance, sanitation improvements, hygiene supplies, and other essential aid. Humanitarian teams are also assessing additional locations to expand support as the needs assessment process continues.
The UN and its partners are working to strengthen the humanitarian response while preparing updated plans for recovery and reconstruction. Funding from international donors and private sector contributors is helping support emergency operations, but additional resources will be needed as Venezuela begins the long process of rebuilding damaged communities and infrastructure.
