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Stamford, Conn. – June 25, 2026 – Americares is mobilizing to deliver emergency medical aid and relief supplies to Venezuela where back-to-back earthquakes have reduced buildings to rubble and rescuers are racing to reach survivors.
A 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit west of the capital yesterday evening local time, followed by a 7.5 magnitude earthquake less than a minute later. The earthquakes were felt across much of the country, and the government of Venezuela has declared a state of emergency.
Early reports indicate at least 164 people have died and nearly 1,000 are injured. The U.S. Geological Survey reports “high casualties and damage are probable,” with the powerful earthquakes striking a region with unreinforced brick masonry and adobe block construction. Hospitals and the Simón Bolívar International Airport are among the facilities damaged in one of the strongest earthquakes in a century.
Americares is preparing to deliver urgently needed aid, including essential medicines, orthopedic supplies, antibiotics, water purification supplies and hygiene kits to the hardest hit areas. Americares is assessing the most urgent needs and coordinating its response with the Pan American Health Organization, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and other disaster response organizations.
“Our hearts go out to all of those affected by this sudden and devastating emergency,” said Americares SVP of Programs and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Julie Varughese. “With earthquakes of this magnitude, health facilities will be overflowing with survivors in need of treatment for broken bones and wounds. Americares stands ready to help affected communities.”
Americares responds to 30 natural disasters and humanitarian crises worldwide each year, establishes long-term recovery projects and brings preparedness programs to communities vulnerable to disasters. Americares relief workers are among the first to respond to emergencies, helping to restore health services for survivors. After disasters, the organization often stays for months—or years—helping communities recover.
Americares has a long history of responding to major earthquakes, including the 2023 Türkiye and Syria earthquake, the 2015 Nepal earthquake, the 2010 and 2021 earthquakes in Haiti and the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.
Donations to Americares Worldwide Disaster Relief Fund will support its response to the earthquakes and other emergencies. To donate, go to www.americares.org/WWDisaster