Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
More than 4,000 people died in the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on 24 June, causing extensive damage across multiple states, according to international reports citing authorities. Thousands remain displaced three weeks after the disaster, with families facing uncertainty over housing, healthcare, and basic needs. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has assisted nearly 7,000 people in displacement sites and provided over 10,000 services, including temporary shelter, healthcare, psychosocial support, and protection. About 20,000 people have received assistance from the government and UN agencies.
The humanitarian response is shifting from search and rescue—many international teams have withdrawn—toward early recovery efforts. IOM is scaling up its approach to address both immediate needs and longer-term recovery priorities. A significant concern is debris management, due to its environmental impacts and the risk that adverse weather could delay response operations.
IOM officials have highlighted the potential development of a strong El Niño weather pattern in the Americas, which could bring droughts or heavy rains and further complicate recovery for displaced populations. IOM and partners are factoring in these risks to ensure response efforts remain operational if El Niño impacts materialize.
To meet ongoing needs, IOM has launched an appeal for resources to sustain emergency assistance, shelter, access to basic services, and recovery programs over the next 12 months. The agency stressed that the disaster's consequences will require continued humanitarian support.