CARE is working with partners in Venezuela to assess urgent humanitarian needs after two powerful earthquakes struck the country on June 24, worsening an already fragile social and economic situation.
The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, hit northern Venezuela less than a minute apart, west of the capital, Caracas. Preliminary reports indicate widespread damage, including collapsed buildings in Caracas and surrounding areas, with dozens of people reported killed and hundreds injured.
Search and rescue operations are continuing as authorities work to understand the full scale of the disaster. Aftershocks and damage to critical infrastructure, including the closure of Caracas’ main international airport, are making response efforts more difficult.
Authorities have declared a state of emergency, and rapid assessments are underway to identify the most urgent needs. Initial reports suggest that affected communities require temporary shelter, safe water and sanitation, food assistance, protection services and psychosocial support.
CARE said the immediate priority is saving lives, supporting injured people and ensuring that affected families receive timely assistance. The organization is coordinating with existing partners already responding inside Venezuela to determine how best to strengthen emergency support.
The earthquakes have struck at a time when Venezuela is already facing a prolonged economic and humanitarian crisis. Years of hyperinflation, political instability and insecurity have forced millions of people to leave the country, while many of those who remain continue to live in extreme poverty.
CARE warned that the disaster could deepen existing inequalities and push more families into severe hardship. Communities already facing limited access to food, healthcare, clean water and stable income are likely to be among the hardest hit.
The organization also highlighted the specific risks faced by women and girls during disasters. They may need targeted support, including menstrual and hygiene supplies, reproductive health services, psychosocial care and safe shelters to reduce the risk of sexual violence and exploitation.
CARE’s response will focus on working with local partners to support communities directly affected by the earthquakes, with particular attention to the needs of women, girls and other vulnerable groups.
Overall, the earthquakes have created a serious humanitarian emergency in Venezuela, adding pressure to a country already facing deep social and economic challenges. Continued assessment, coordinated response and urgent support will be essential to protect lives and help affected families recover.
