Venezuela Earthquake: What to Know Right Now
- Two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude struck central Venezuela, causing widespread destruction across several states.
- More than 1,700 people have been reported killed, injured 4,520 more, and affected more than 70,000 families in La Guaira alone.
- As of 30 June, at least 68,900 people are still reported missing in Venezuela, according to an independent online registry for missing persons.
- More than 774 buildings have collapsed, transport systems and the international airport have been disrupted, and power and communications outages are hampering rescue efforts.
- Save the Children has released $1.5 million from the Children's Emergency Fund and is working with local partners to provide healthcare, shelter, food, child protection and other lifesaving support.
- We aim to reach 200,000 people, including 100,000 children.
7.5
Magnitude of the strongest earthquake to hit
1,700+
People reported killed by the earthquakes
3.9 Million
Children live in areas affected by the earthquakes
How Have Children in Venezuela Been Impacted by the Earthquake?
Children have lost safe places to live
Many children have lost their homes and are now sheltering outside with nowhere safe to go.
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Children face increased protection risks
Some children have been separated from their families during the chaos, leaving them at greater risk of exploitation, abuse and trafficking.
Essential services have been disrupted
. Children urgently need access to shelter, nutritious food, clean water, healthcare and emotional support.
"We will focus on the most urgent needs, working to support families with healthcare, shelter, food, child protection services, and essential supplies as needed. We are aiming to reach 200,000 people, including 100,000 children with critical support. "
- Valentina, Save the Children Staff Member in Venezuela
Save the Children's Work in Venezuela
Every day, Save the Children works alongside children, families, and communities to ensure children are safe, healthy, educated, and able to thrive. Our programs protect children from violence, exploitation and neglect while supporting their mental health and well-being.
We help children stay in school by creating safe learning environments, training teachers and providing educational supplies.
We strengthen health and nutrition services for mothers and young children, train caregivers in healthy feeding practices, and expand access to primary health care.
At the same time, we help families meet their basic needs through food security and livelihoods programs that build resilience, support youth employment, and improve access to nutritious food for tens of thousands of people.
On June 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM, Venezuela was struck by two powerful earthquakes. This has led to widespread displacement as families camp in parks and streets.
FAQs and How To Help Children in Venezuela
What happened during the Venezuela earthquakes in June 2026?
Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela within seconds of each other, causing widespread damage and leaving families in urgent need. Homes have been destroyed, services disrupted, and many communities remain without reliable power or communication. The full scale of the impact is still emerging as assessments continue.
Where in Venezuela did the earthquake occur?
The earthquakes impacted communities across Venezuela, with severe damage reported in multiple affected areas. As assessments continue and access improves, response teams are working to understand the full scope of the disaster and deliver aid to families in the hardest-hit communities.
How are children affected by the earthquakes?
Children are among the most vulnerable in this crisis. Many have been forced to flee their homes and are now living without safe shelter, clean water or consistent access to food. Some children have been separated from their families in the chaos and may be alone, frightened and at risk. Disasters like this can also have lasting emotional impacts on children, making protection and support critical from the very beginning.
What do people affected by the Venezuela earthquake need most right now?
Families affected by the earthquakes urgently need:
- Safe shelter
- Clean drinking water
- Food and nutrition support
- Medical care
- Hygiene supplies
- Protection and emotional support for children
Needs are evolving as more information becomes available and additional communities are reached.
What is Save the Children doing in Venezuela?
Save the Children is working with trusted local partners to reach children and families in the hardest-hit communities. We are:
- Providing emergency food, clean water and health services.
- Supporting safe shelter for displaced families
- Protecting children who have been separated from caregivers
- Delivering critical relief supplies
Save The Children has been working in Venezuela since 2018. We know these communities and how to respond quickly and effectively in times of crisis, and we’ll continue showing up as families recover.
How can I help victims of the Venezuela Earthquake?
Thanks to a generous group of donors* your donation to the Children's Emergency Fund can be MATCHED 2X, helping Save the Children provide lifesaving support in Venezuela and wherever children are caught in crisis.
- $250 - can provide an emergency kit comprised of a bedsheet and mattress, clothes, and toiletries for
13 families - $500 - can provide a blanket and child-friendly supplies to comfort
2060 children in a shelter - $1,000 - can provide shelter materials for
39 families displaced by crisis
Don't wait to make a lifesaving gift. Every moment counts.
Will Save the Children continue supporting Venezuela long-term?
Yes. Save the Children is committed to supporting children before, during and after emergencies. We will continue working with local partners to help families recover and rebuild, ensuring children have access to the care and support they need over time.
Save the Children has a proven track record of using donations efficiently and effectively to change children's lives. We are proud to have received an A- rating from CharityWatch and a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, the highest score possible from America’s leading independent charity evaluator.
This recognition reflects our long-standing commitment to ethical governance, transparent operations, and fiscally responsible use of donor support.
Updated: June 27, 2026
