UN estimates 6.8 million people could be affected by Venezuela earthquakes

The United Nations estimates that up to 6.76 million people may be impacted by two devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24. The powerful tremors, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, have resulted in nearly 1,000 confirmed deaths and left tens of thousands missing.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a UN agency, stated that its projections are based on available population and damage assessments. These figures include an estimated two million people in the capital city of Caracas, highlighting the potential for a massive humanitarian crisis.

Entire buildings collapsed in La Guaira following the twin earthquakes. The national death toll has reached 920, with many still trapped under rubble in the coastal region and elsewhere. UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher reported on Friday that over 50,000 people were missing.

The IOM, in collaboration with Microsoft's AI intelligence lab, conducted an initial satellite mapping analysis. This revealed that 31.5% of buildings in the town of Catia La Mar sustained damage. These assessments are crucial for humanitarian teams to identify the most affected communities and prioritize aid delivery.

"The first hours and days after a disaster are critical. They determine everything that comes next," said IOM Director General Amy Pope. "IOM is rapidly scaling up its response: pre-positioned relief items are already being deployed, and we are working with the Government and partners to provide emergency shelter, essential supplies, and protection." The agency warned that displacement is likely to increase in Venezuela, a country already facing a severe humanitarian crisis before the earthquakes.