One month since Venezuela earthquakes: 'Need for humanitarian aid remains great'

A month has passed since powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela's northern coast, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming over 5,100 lives. Despite the initial global outpouring of support, the need for humanitarian aid in the affected regions remains immense, according to NRC Refugee Aid.

Elena Vicario, NRC's country director in Venezuela, emphasized the ongoing challenge. "The first month after a disaster often brings global solidarity and attention. The real test now is whether this support continues after Venezuela disappears from the headlines," she stated in a press release. The number of people requiring aid has surged by over 700,000, pushing the total to 1.3 million in the earthquake-stricken areas.

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The first month after a disaster often brings global solidarity and attention. The real test now is whether this support continues after Venezuela disappears from the headlines.

While aid is planned for 6.2 million people over the next six months, only 39% of the necessary funding has been secured. Vicario urged donors to ensure sustained financing that reaches all sectors and strengthens existing capacities within Venezuela. "Local communities, organizations, and established humanitarian actors have the knowledge and access needed to reach the affected population, and new support should strengthen their work," she added.

The earthquakes, which struck on June 24th near La Guaira, caused widespread devastation, leaving thousands homeless. Search and rescue teams continue to recover bodies from collapsed buildings, and many individuals are still unaccounted for, with Venezuelan authorities not providing an official missing persons count.

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Local communities, organizations and established humanitarian actors have the knowledge and access needed to reach the affected population, and new support should strengthen their work.