Severe Earthquakes Strike Venezuela, Aid Organizations Respond
Two strong earthquakes and multiple aftershocks hit northern Venezuela on June 24, 2026, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
On June 24, 2026, two powerful earthquakes, registering magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, struck northern Venezuela, with their epicenters located approximately 150 kilometers west of the capital, Caracas. The tremors and subsequent aftershocks resulted in significant devastation, leading to thousands of deaths and leaving countless individuals injured or missing.
Rescue efforts are underway but have been hampered by heavy rainfall, floods, and collapsed bridges, restricting access to the most affected areas such as La Guaira. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), over 3,500 people have died and more than 16,700 have been injured. Approximately 6,500 individuals have been rescued, but tens of thousands remain unaccounted for.
Several member organizations of "Aktion Deutschland Hilft" (Action Germany Thanks) are on the ground providing assistance. Johanniter has dispatched a team of 27 personnel and 13 tons of medical supplies. Malteser International is providing mobile medical units and addressing shortages of essential medicines. ASB is delivering water and sanitation equipment, while AWO International is distributing hygiene kits.
Aid operations also focus on providing shelter, food, and psychosocial support. CARE is distributing hot meals and hygiene items, while Help is delivering food and sanitary products. Habitat for Humanity and action medeor are working on providing safe housing solutions and supporting reconstruction efforts.