The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said today that as many as 6.76 million people could be affected by the devastating back-to-back earthquakes that struck Venezuela on Wednesday.
The IOM’s initial estimates place the potential humanitarian impact at a staggering scale, with up to 2 million people in Caracas alone among those affected. Satellite mapping conducted in partnership with Microsoft AI for Good Lab shows that 31.5% of buildings in Catia La Mar have sustained damage. IOM warned that displacement is expected to rise as families seek safety and called for urgent international assistance.
“The first hours and days after a disaster are decisive. They shape everything that follows,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope. “IOM is scaling up rapidly: prepositioned relief items are already being deployed, and we are working with the Government and partners to deliver emergency shelter, essential supplies, and protection.”
Today, Prime Minister John Briceño announced that Belize is prepared to assist Venezuela’s recovery. He said in an online statement that he spoke directly with Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez following the disaster.
“I assured her that Belize stands with the Venezuelan people and is ready to assist, including deploying Belizean linesmen to help restore electricity,” Briceño said.
The IOM said families urgently need emergency shelter, safe water, sanitation, healthcare, protection services and essential relief supplies.
Meanwhile, Belize’s Ministry of Education confirmed that all Belizean students studying in Venezuela have been accounted for and are safe. Officials said the students reported no physical injuries, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to monitor the situation through Belize’s diplomatic mission. Chief Executive Officer Oscar Arnold said that Belize’s Ambassador to Venezuela Annie Lou Burns made direct contact with all Belizean students following the earthquake to confirm their safety. He said Ambassador Burns had previously conducted emergency preparedness exercises with the students, who were advised to keep go-bags ready with essential items.
