The United Nations has warned that up to 6.8 million people may have been impacted by the powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela, as the death toll continues to rise and thousands remain unaccounted for.
According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), an analysis of available population and damage data suggests that as many as 6.76 million people could be affected by the twin earthquakes that hit the country on June 24.
The estimate includes nearly two million residents of Caracas, underscoring the scale of what the UN described as a potentially massive humanitarian crisis.
The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, caused widespread destruction across northern Venezuela. Entire buildings collapsed in La Guaira, one of the worst-hit areas, while rescue teams continue searching through rubble for survivors.
Authorities say at least 920 people have died, while more than 50,000 people are still missing, according to UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher.
The IOM said it partnered with Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab to conduct satellite-based damage assessments. Preliminary findings showed that about 31.5 per cent of buildings in Catia La Mar suffered damage.
The agency noted that the mapping exercise is helping emergency responders identify the hardest-hit communities and prioritize the delivery of life-saving assistance.
IOM Director-General Amy Pope stressed the importance of rapid intervention, describing the first few days after a disaster as critical.
“The first hours and days after a disaster are decisive. They shape everything that follows,” she said.
Pope added that emergency supplies already positioned in Caracas are being deployed, while the agency works alongside Venezuelan authorities and humanitarian partners to provide shelter, food, water, healthcare and protection services to affected communities.
She warned that displacement is expected to increase in a country that was already grappling with significant humanitarian challenges before the earthquakes struck.
“Swift action is essential as we deliver life-saving assistance and support the people of Venezuela through the difficult days and months ahead,” she said.
The IOM also appealed for greater international support, noting that thousands of families have lost their homes and now require urgent humanitarian aid.
According to the agency, emergency relief materials stored in Caracas are being prepared for distribution to communities facing the greatest needs as rescue and recovery efforts continue.
