UN Estimates 6.8 Million Affected by Venezuela Earthquakes

The United Nations has estimated that nearly 6.8 million people may be affected by the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5. The earthquakes have resulted in a death toll of approximately 920 individuals, with around 10,000 people reported missing.

The UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) is assessing the damage and has indicated that 6.76 million people could be impacted, including two million in Caracas alone. The earthquakes caused significant destruction, particularly in La Guaira, where entire buildings have crumbled.

IOM Chief Ami Pope stated that the organization is rapidly deploying relief items and working with government partners to provide emergency shelter and essential supplies. The situation is expected to worsen, with a rise in displacement anticipated.

The UN stresses the need for immediate humanitarian assistance to support affected communities and facilitate recovery efforts.