Powerful Earthquake Hits Northwest Venezuela

A significant earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 struck northwest Venezuela on Wednesday evening. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the earthquake’s epicenter was located 17.6 miles southeast of Montalbán. It occurred at a depth of 8.2 miles.

The quake led to the issuance of tsunami advisories for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The National Weather Service’s U.S. Tsunami Warning System predicted potential hazards from sea level changes and strong ocean currents along coasts, beaches, harbors, and coastal waters.

Venezolana de Televisión, the state-run channel, noted that the tremors were felt throughout Venezuela, reaching the capital, Caracas. In Caracas, buildings swayed, prompting evacuations. Many people stayed outside amid visible shock, witnessing collapsed walls that revealed interiors from the streets. Dust was seen billowing in two neighborhoods known for their bustling commercial activity.

Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello highlighted that several states experienced the quake, specifically mentioning Altamira in Caracas, where some homes and buildings collapsed. He advised residents to stay outdoors due to potential aftershocks that might further threaten unstable structures.

Colombia, to the west of Venezuela, confirmed via social media that the earthquake posed no tsunami threat to its Caribbean coastline.

The full extent of the damage and the number of injuries remained unknown as updates continued.