Venezuela was struck by back-to-back powerful earthquakes on Wednesday evening, which led to buildings collapsing in the capital, Caracas.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported the first earthquake had a 7.1 magnitude, with its epicenter located west of Morón, a community along the country’s Caribbean coast, about 104 miles (168 kilometers) west of Caracas. Its depth was 8 miles (13 kilometers).
The USGS reported an even larger 7.5-magnitude earthquake striking just a minute later. This second quake had a depth of 10 kilometers, and its epicenter was 10 miles (16 kilometers) southwest of Morón.
These seismic events collectively represent some of the strongest to strike Venezuela in more than a century.
The U.S. Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami alert for Virgin Islands. Authorities in the Dominican Republic also issued one for the island. Another alert for Puerto Rico was quickly lifted.
People evacuated swaying buildings in Caracas and remained outside, many visibly shocked as they saw entire walls that had collapsed, making furniture visible from the street. Dust columns could also be seen in two neighborhoods of the capital, where restaurants and other businesses are typically busy.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said the quake could be felt in several states. The Altamira neighborhood in Caracas had “alarming situations” with collapsed homes and buildings, he said, suggesting people were injured in the earthquake and asking motorists to give way to ambulances and other emergency vehicles.
“We understand that some people may be desperate, but we are acting according to protocols to activate aid and rescue efforts to help those who need it most,” Cabello said on state television. “Be very careful with children and the elderly; call each other and check that no one has been harmed.”
He also urged people to remain outside as aftershocks could further damage some structures.
“The building really shook from side to side. Unreal. The force was incredibly strong,” Caracas resident Roberto Damas said. “We were walking and it was tossing us around. Everything in the apartment fell. Well, thank God we were able to get out.”
