Thousands of people in Venezuela remain displaced three weeks after powerful twin earthquakes struck the country on 24 June, causing extensive damage across several states and killing more than 4,000 people, according to international reports citing authorities.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) warned on Thursday, 16 July 2026, that the possible formation of a strong El Niño climate pattern could further worsen the already dire situation faced by displaced families.

Leah Poggio, IOM’s Chief of Mission in Venezuela, speaking from Caracas, said, “While significant response efforts are currently underway, humanitarian needs remain considerable.” She highlighted that many displaced families continue to face uncertainty regarding housing, healthcare access, and meeting basic daily needs.

IOM has assisted nearly 7,000 people in displacement sites and delivered over 10,000 services, including temporary accommodation, healthcare, psychosocial support, and protection assistance. Additionally, about 20,000 people have received some form of aid from the government and UN agencies.

Lucas Guedes Hackradt, IOM’s Disaster Risk Reduction Coordinator in Venezuela, noted that while international search and rescue teams are withdrawing, humanitarian workers remain on the ground and are scaling up emergency assistance programs. He also mentioned that the UN system is discussing the potential development of a “really strong El Niño system.”

Humanitarian operations are now shifting focus from search and rescue to recovery, with the El Niño threat incorporated into response planning to address ongoing and emerging needs.

Sources