Responding to Venezuela Earthquakes – U.S. Embassy in El Salvador

Responding to Venezuela Earthquakes – U.S. Embassy in El Salvador

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Responding to Venezuela Earthquakes

On June 24, 2026, Venezuela experienced a pair of strong earthquakes off the northern coast, west of Caracas.  The first shock was reported around magnitude 7.2, followed by a larger main event about 39 seconds later at roughly magnitude 7.5.  These quakes have caused significant damage in several cities.  The U.S. Geological Survey issued red PAGERs for both earthquakes, indicating high loss of life and extensive damage are probable and that the disaster is widespread.

The United States is mounting an immediate response and mobilizing support for affected communities.  The Department of State, under Secretary Rubio, is deploying a regional Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART), as well as urban search-and-rescue teams, to assess needs and provide search and recovery assistance.  In addition, the Department is collaborating with other U.S. departments, UN agencies, NGOs, and host governments to deliver search-and-rescue support, as well as other supplies.

Assisting Americans

The Trump Administration has no higher priority than the safety and security of Americans.  The Department of State is working tirelessly to provide consular assistance to U.S. citizens and their families in the affected areas. We are also monitoring conditions in Venezuela as recovery work proceeds. Americans in Venezuela can reach us 24/7 at +1-202-501-4444 for assistance. Family and friends in the U.S. can call toll free +1-888-407-4747. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at STEP.state.gov to receive safety and security updates from the U.S. Embassy, review the Department’s Travel Advisory for Venezuela, and follow @TravelGov and @USEmbassyVE on social media and WhatsApp “U.S. Department of State – Security Updates for U.S. Citizens” for the latest information.

How to Help with International Disasters
Key Points

When donating, cash is best: Enables rapid, flexible, and effective response. Verify before donating: Use trusted resources to confirm legitimacy. Material aid: Only send if requested and all logistics are arranged. Volunteering: Experience, training and a prearranged host organization are essential. Business: Coordinate with relief agencies and use official channels. Stay vigilant: Watch for scams and verify all organizations.

Ways to Help
Monetary Contributions

Financial donations to established relief organizations are the most efficient and impactful way to support disaster response. Monetary contributions allow organizations to purchase urgently needed supplies locally, avoiding delays, high transportation costs, and customs issues. Local purchases also support affected economies and ensure goods are culturally appropriate and delivered quickly. Every financial donation, regardless of size, helps save lives and reduce suffering. The Department has partnered with the following organizations to provide support to the effort—CRS, Samaritan’s Purse, and World Vision. For those looking to assist, the websites linked offer opportunities to contribute.

In-Kind Donations

Unsolicited material donations (such as clothing, food, medicine, or bottled water) often clog supply chains, divert resources, and increase logistical costs. Only send material aid if specifically requested by an established relief agency, with all shipping, warehousing, and customs arrangements made in advance. Relief organizations assess needs on the ground and coordinate with governments and local groups. When material donations are needed, agencies will issue specific appeals with clear instructions. The U.S. Department of State does not provide free transportation for donated goods; donors are responsible for all logistics and any associated costs. Medical supply donations require special expertise and are best handled by licensed organizations. Consult the Food and Drug Administration’s guidance for additional resources.

How to Donate Safely

Always verify the legitimacy of organizations before donating. There is a risk of scams following disasters, including fake charities, AI generated appeals, and fraudulent crowdfunding. The Federal Trade Commission provides guidance as do various organizations that monitor private entities and organizations. · Also refer to the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC) and the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons list to help ensure that your donation goes to an established organization and is consistent with U.S. sanctions. Donations to qualified charities may be tax-deductible; request a receipt for your records and confirm with a tax professional.

Private Sector and Business Involvement

The private sector plays a critical role in disaster response and recovery. Businesses with unique capabilities—such as technology, logistics, or specialized products—should coordinate with host countries and relief agencies to ensure contributions are appropriate and effective in filling response gaps and accelerating long-term economic recovery. To sell goods or services to the U.S. government for disaster response, or recovery, visit Doing Business with the Department of State. Businesses seeking opportunities to support longer-term, post-disaster recovery and reconstruction can monitor potential, current, and upcoming projects on the World Bank’s Projects and Operations portal. Project procurement inquiries can also be sent to pfquestions@worldbank.org. Alternatively, businesses can submit their project proposal via the U.S. Development Finance Corporation’s website after reviewing eligibility requirements, which typically include U.S. partnership, private sector leadership, and positive developmental impact. Companies seeking to collaborate with the U.S. Department of State on a shared-value and resource sharing basis, contact PSDisasterResponse@state.gov.

Volunteering

Overseas disaster relief opportunities for untrained volunteers are extremely limited. Relief agencies prioritize candidates with local language skills, technical expertise, and significant experience (often 10+ years) in fields like medicine, logistics, or engineering. No one should deploy to a disaster region to volunteer unless there is a clear agreement to be hosted by an established organization working in the disaster zone. The hosting organization should also assist with ensuring travel and logistic requirements are satisfied. Individuals can help by raising funds and promoting awareness of established organizations.

Child Protection in Times of Emergencies

The U.S. Department of State frequently receives inquiries from U.S. citizens concerned about children in disaster settings. However, it is extremely difficult during crises to determine their family status, including whether they are eligible for immigration under U.S. laws. They may be temporarily separated from their families due to the chaos of the disaster. Assistance in situation is often best for the child. The best way to support children in crises in by providing a financial donation to an established children protection relief organization.

Disclaimer

The Department provides the above links to a number of organizations that provide relief efforts.  The Department does not endorse these organizations or control any information contained therein.

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