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Natural disasters always bring turbulence and instability no matter where on earth they occur. In places already facing economic and political fragility, the consequences can last for decades. Often, disasters act as a catalyst for mass displacement, as people are forced to leave the homes they love.
In Venezuela, a recent disaster has sparked a crisis unlike anything the country has seen in decades. As countless families — many of whom have already faced political and economic instability — grapple with major destruction, thousands are being forced to reckon with the loss of everything they know.
Here’s what you need to know about the crisis in Venezuela:
What Happened
On Wednesday, June 24, two earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude struck northern Venezuela, near the capital city of Caracas, just seconds apart. These two earthquakes are the strongest to hit Venezuela in more than a century.
Reports indicate that 2,295 people have been killed and over 11,200 injured. Officials expect those figures to rise significantly as search, rescue and damage assessment efforts continue.
What This Means
Venezuelan families are in urgent need, as more than 12,000 are now displaced in a country already facing severe political and economic challenges. Significant damage was sustained at Simón Bolívar International Airport, the primary gateway serving Caracas, hindering emergency response and relief operations. Power outages, telecommunications disruptions and transportation failures have further complicated recovery efforts, while critical health and transportation infrastructure have suffered extensive damage.
As search and rescue operations continue and hospitals face overwhelming demand, thousands of people remain displaced from their homes and communities. Many families are sleeping outdoors or in temporary shelters, uncertain of when it will be safe to return. For families who had little to begin with, this is the loss of nearly everything.
How We’re Responding
With local partnerships actively progressing, World Relief is positioned to respond rapidly to meet urgent needs for individuals and families affected by the earthquakes.
We are coordinating with Baptist World Aid in partnership with the National Baptist Convention of Venezuela to provide food, essential medicines, non-food items, safe water and emergency assistance, particularly in Caracas and La Guaira. In addition, we are leveraging relationships with local churches and medical networks to respond as additional needs emerge. Together, we are delivering critical relief assistance, assessing shelter needs and strengthening the capacity of churches to serve those affected by the earthquakes.
We are also actively supporting our Venezuelan clients across the U.S. as they process the impact of this event on the lives of their loved ones. Many have friends and family living in the affected areas and are facing uncertainty as they await news and updates. Through care and support, we are standing alongside those affected both in Venezuela and throughout the Venezuelan diaspora during this difficult time.
The Earthquakes in Venezuela: How You Can Help
As we respond to this crisis and support Venezuelans impacted by these earthquakes, we know the intensity of this sudden disaster has upended the lives of thousands of people. The need is urgent and the road to recovery is long. A gift right now goes straight to families who have lost everything.
In the wake of such devastating loss, we are reminded that God draws near to those who are suffering. Will you stand with us as we respond to those walking through their darkest hours?
NOTE: This blog will be updated as more information becomes available.
Samuel Heard serves as a content specialist at World Relief. His writing has appeared in a variety of outlets, including Baptist Press, Mere Orthodoxy, the Center for Faith and Culture and elsewhere. He lives in Upstate South Carolina with his wife and three children.