We must act quickly. Together with the 14 other charities that make up the DEC, we’re launching a UK-wide appeal to meet the escalating needs of people affected by the earthquakes. Christian Aid colleagues are already working hard with our partners to assess the needs of our neighbours in Venezuela and ensure that our emergency response is exactly what and where it needs to be.
Overview of the Crisis
On Thursday 24 June at 18:04 local time, two powerful earthquakes struck north-central Venezuela near Morón (Carabobo State). Measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude and occurring just 39 seconds apart, this rare “doublet” earthquake caused widespread devastation.
Strong tremors were felt across Caracas, Carabobo, La Guaira, Miranda and Aragua, as well as neighbouring Colombia and parts of the Caribbean. The second quake is the strongest recorded in Venezuela since 1900.
Aftershocks have continued, hampering rescue efforts and increasing risks to affected communities.
Impact and Humanitarian Situation (correct at 5pm Tuesday 30 June 2026)
Rescue efforts are ongoing, but the scale of the disaster is significant and still unfolding:
- 1,700 confirmed deaths
- 5034 people injured
- 15800 affected people
- 68,900 people reported unaccounted for
- Over 9,000 buildings collapsed nationwide
- 24 countries supporting response efforts with more than 2,700 rescue personnel and 86 canine units
The government has declared a State of Emergency, and the number of casualties is expected to rise as more areas are reached.
Up to 6.76 million people may be affected, including an estimated 680,000 children in need of humanitarian assistance.
Damage and Disruption
Some of the most severe damage has occurred in La Guaira, particularly in coastal urban areas such as Catia La Mar and Caraballeda, where dense housing and older infrastructure have increased vulnerability.
Across the affected regions:
- Homes, businesses and public buildings have collapsed
- Roads and transport routes are damaged
- Electricity, telecommunications and water systems are disrupted
- Health services and hospital access are severely affected
- Structural damage has forced the temporary closure of Simón Bolívar International Airport
Many people are now sheltering in open spaces, vehicles, schools and temporary shelters due to fears of further collapse.
Humanitarian Needs
Affected communities urgently require:
- Safe shelter and essential household items
- Food and access to clean water
- Healthcare and sanitation services
- Protection support and mental health care
Those most at risk include children, older people, people with disabilities, women-headed households, and communities already impacted by Venezuela’s ongoing socioeconomic crisis.
Response and Partnerships
Christian Aid is working through its ACT Alliance partners, supporting local organisations already responding on the ground. These include:
- Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
- Swiss Church Aid (HEKS)
- Lutheran World Federation
Faith communities play a vital role in response efforts, offering trusted networks that provide practical and pastoral support and help reach the most vulnerable.
How Donations Will Help
It is not too late to save lives and prevent further suffering. Donations will enable partners to provide:
- Water hygiene kits (including purification tablets and filters)
- Dignity kits for adolescent girls (including sanitary products)
- Food supplies such as grains, lentils, oil and salt
- Cash assistance so families can meet urgent needs
Suggested donation impacts:
- £10 – can provide dignity kits, including underwear and sanitary products, for adolescent girls.
- £20 – food or cash support for a household
- £50 – can provide water hygiene kits that contain water purification tablets and a water filter.
- £100 – helps provide food (including lentils for protein, grains, cooking oil, salt).
Message from Christian Aid
Carlos E. Mejia, Head of Impact, MCC LAC, Christian Aid, said:
Venezuela is facing immense human suffering. These earthquakes have deepened an already difficult situation, causing widespread destruction and loss.
The impact is not just measured in numbers, but in lives, families and communities now facing grief and uncertainty.
Through our partnerships with faith-based networks, we are working to channel solidarity and support from communities in the UK to those affected. This is a tangible expression of hope in the face of tragedy.
Prayer
God of all compassion,
We hold before you the people of Venezuela.The scale of the disaster is great and the pain is deep.
Be close to those who mourn,
and sustain those awaiting news of loved ones.Strengthen and protect rescuers, medical teams and aid workers.
Be present with those still trapped,
bringing comfort and hope.Help us to respond with generosity and compassion,
and to stand alongside those in need, now and in the months ahead.Amen
