Venezuela earthquakes: What is MSF doing and how can I help?
A powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Venezuela on the evening of Wednesday 24 June, followed by an even stronger 7.5 quake seconds later.
Early reports confirm more than 1,450 people have died - and the toll is expected to rise.
So far, we have supported the care of over 3,500 people affected by the earthquakes.
How can I help MSF in Venezuela?
Right now, our teams are assessing the medical and humanitarian needs in Venezuela.
This is only possible because of donations from people like you.
By donating to us today, you will be helping to ensure we can respond to emergencies around the world, like the earthquakes in Venezuela.
Please donate today to support our emergency teams.
Click here to learn more about how we spend your money.
How is MSF responding?
MSF teams in Venezuela are all reported safe, but many of our staff have lost their homes, friends and family members.
- MSF donated over 200 emergency trauma kits to José María Vargas Hospital in La Guaira, one of the city’s worst hit by the earthquake, the day after the earthquakes.
- As of 29 June, eight hospitals in Caracas and La Guaira have received supplies covering the treatment of 3,500 patients.
- From our experience with earthquake response, mental health first aid is critical. We are assessing needs and ready to provide support.
Emergency trauma kits are designed to treat life-threatening injuries like severe bleeding, open chest wounds, and obstructed airways. Unlike standard first aid kits meant for minor cuts, trauma kits focus on preventing rapid blood loss before emergency responders arrive.
Background: MSF in Venezuela
Our teams are often among the first humanitarian responders on the ground for one key reason: because we are already there.
MSF has been working in Venezuela since 2015, providing vital services ranging from malaria treatment to sexual and reproductive healthcare.
We run two projects in the Venezuelan states of Anzoátegui and Delta Amacuro, focusing on people who are often left behind or unable to access healthcare.
The teams bring essential medical care closer to communities, offering everything from routine check-ups to specialist services. This includes care for pregnant women and young children, sexual and reproductive health services, support for newborn babies, laboratory testing, and mental health care.
Alongside treating patients, MSF is working to strengthen local health facilities and ensure people have access to safe water and proper sanitation - both vital for staying healthy.
In 2024, MSF provided 166,900 outpatient consultations for people in Venezuela.
MSF and natural disasters
With over 50 years' of experience, we are experts in rolling out emergency responses in complex settings.
Within a matter of minutes, natural disasters such as tsunamis, earthquakes and hurricanes can overwhelm an entire population.
Hundreds and even thousands of people can be injured or traumatised by the loss of family, friends and homes.
Clean water, healthcare and transport are also often casualties in these disasters. Rapid medical care and coordinated emergency response are vital to protect survivors.
From large-scale catastrophes to local emergencies, MSF’s network of aid workers and supplies around the world means we can quickly respond to disasters.