On 24 June 2026, two powerful earthquakes measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck north-central Venezuela, followed by more than 900 aftershocks. The earthquakes caused widespread damage across Caracas, La Guaira and surrounding regions, resulting in significant loss of life and leaving tens of thousands of people displaced. As the emergency response transitioned into recovery, access to safe drinking water quickly became one of the most urgent humanitarian priorities.
To provide urgent disaster aid, our international partners ASB and Smart Hydro worked alongside the Venezuelan organisation Funvape to deliver safe water where it was needed most. SkyHydrant GEM, Squirt and Platypus water filtration systems are being deployed across health centres, temporary and permanent shelters, and the households most affected by the disaster, combining practical water treatment technology with local knowledge and expertise.
Many people displaced by the earthquakes are now living in permanent shelters established in schools, sporting facilities and other public buildings. While these shelters provide essential accommodation, access to safe drinking water remains limited. Caracas’ ageing water infrastructure relies heavily on irregular tanker deliveries, making reliable water treatment an important part of the ongoing recovery effort.
Since arriving in Venezuela on 1 July, the response team has focused on both delivering safe water and building local capacity. Technical training has been provided to two Funvape work teams, enabling them to install, operate and maintain SkyJuice water treatment systems independently. This approach helps ensure that the benefits of the project will continue well beyond the immediate emergency response.
The project is deploying a combination of SkyJuice technologies, each suited to different needs within the disaster response.
SkyHydrant GEM systems are being installed at larger permanent shelters and health centres, providing high-capacity, community-scale treatment of contaminated water.
Squirt water filters are providing reliable, safe drinking water within temporary and permanent shelters and have already been installed at eight locations, benefiting more than 2,400 people.
To extend support beyond the shelters, more than 2,000 Platypus household water filters will be distributed to families, providing safe drinking water directly in homes and temporary accommodation. This next phase of the project is expected to reach a further 4,000 people.
The Venezuela response demonstrates the value of combining proven water treatment technology with strong local partnerships. Together, SkyJuice Foundation, Funvape, ASB and SmartHydro are delivering practical, sustainable safe water solutions that support both immediate humanitarian needs and longer-term recovery. We are proud to work alongside our partners in helping earthquake-affected communities restore reliable access to safe drinking water.
