25 June 2026
At least 164 people have been
confirmed dead and 971 were injured after the powerful
tremors hit northern areas late Wednesday less than one
minute apart. It is not yet known how bad the situation is
in the worst-hit state of la Guaira.
According to the
US Geological Survey, the first earthquake measured 7.2 on
the Richter Scale. Its epicentre was near the city of San
Felipe, home to some 220,000 people. The second quake was
registered at 7.5 magnitude and was reportedly the strongest
tremor to hit the country in more than 125
years.
Responding to the emergency, the UN aid office,
OCHA, announced the rapid
deployment of Urban Search and Rescue Teams from across the
international community through the International Search and
Rescue Advisory Group.
“I’m in constant contact
with our team in Caracas, led by Humanitarian Coordinator
Gianluca Rampolla, to ensure a swift and effective
response,” said UN emergency relief chief, Tom Fletcher.
“He has spoken this morning to the interim President, and
we are assessing urgently what is needed. Our team in
Venezuela is working with the authorities to identify
priorities.”
Here’s the latest reaction from UN
agencies:
UN aid coordination office
(OCHA):
“Devastating Venezuela earthquakes.
I’m in close contact with our team in Caracas to ensure
full and urgent response, including search and rescue
support and emergency relief for survivors. International
solidarity coming in. We’ll need all hands on deck.” –
UN emergency relief chief Tom Fletcher @UNReliefChief
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UN
World
Food Programme (WFP):
“My
thoughts this morning are with the victims of the
earthquakes in #Venezuela.
All our solidarity with the Venezuelan people. WFP is
prepared to provide assistance and support response efforts
to quickly reach communities. We are with you.” –
Acting Executive Director Carl Skau @WFPChief
UN
migration agency (IOM):
“Heartbreaking
news from Venezuela, where two powerful earthquakes struck
within moments, lives lost, many injured, and communities
affected. IOM is mobilizing with partners to assess needs
and support those impacted. Swift international support is
critical to respond.” – Director General Amy Pope
@IOMchief
UN Office for Project
Services (UNOPS):
“UNOPS
stands with the people of Venezuela. We are ready to support
rapid response efforts wherever needed.” – Executive
Director Jorge Moreira da Silva @UNOPS_Chief
UN
refugee agency (UNHCR):
“Deeply
saddened by the earthquake that has struck Caracas. I stand
in solidarity with all those affected by the loss of loved
ones, injuries, and damage to homes and communities. UNHCR
stands ready to support response efforts in coordination
with the authorities and partners.” High
Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih @BarhamSalih
