- Venezuela is once again in a state of national emergency, and this time not for political reasons.
- The South American country was struck on Wednesday night (June 24) by twin earthquakes that caused the collapse of multiple buildings, primarily in the coastal region of La Guaira, north of Caracas, as well as in the capital city.
- The magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes are among the strongest to hit Venezuela in more than a century, and were felt across the region.
- By noon Saturday (June 26), the news agency reported at least 920 fatal victims and more than 51,000 missing persons.
- According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the first of the two earthquakes, with a magnitude of 7.2, occurred west of Morón, on the Caribbean coast, about 105 miles west of Caracas, at a depth of about 14 miles.
- Just a minute later, the USGS reported a second quake, this one with a magnitude of 7.5, a depth of about 6 miles and an epicenter located 10 miles southwest of Morón.
- CADENA has already mobilized to provide direct aid to those who need it most.
- Caritas Venezuela is already on the ground, bringing relief to the victims, working tirelessly to ease suffering, thanks to the support of donors like you and the Caritas Confederation, which is mobilizing resources for a response plan.
- The Venezuelan Red Cross is operational and responding, with its 'nationwide network of hospitals and polyclinics active [ … ] although it has reported critical damage to its own National Headquarters.'
- UNICEF is rushing emergency support to provide relief to children and their families.
Venezuela is facing a national emergency after twin earthquakes struck on June 24, causing catastrophic damage and loss of life. The first quake, with a magnitude of 7.2, hit west of Morón, followed by a 7.5 magnitude quake just a minute later, leading to the collapse of buildings in La Guaira and Caracas.12
As of June 26, at least 920 people have been confirmed dead, with over 51,000 reported missing, according to local news agencies. The earthquakes are among the strongest to hit the region in over a century, felt across a wide area.
Aid organizations are mobilizing to provide relief to the affected populations. Caritas Venezuela is actively working on the ground, supported by the Caritas Confederation, to deliver essential aid. The Venezuelan Red Cross has also activated its network of hospitals and clinics, despite suffering damage to its own headquarters.89
UNICEF is rushing emergency support to assist children and families impacted by the disaster. The situation remains dire as rescue efforts continue amidst the devastation.10
“Venezuela has declared a national emergency following twin earthquakes on June 24, resulting in significant casualties and destruction. Aid organizations like UNICEF and the Venezuelan Red Cross are mobilizing to provide relief to affected communities.”
Billboard
