Venezuela Rocked By Twin Quakes: Buildings Collapse In Caracas, Tsunami Alert Issued

Moron: Back-to-back earthquakes measuring 7.1 and 7.5 magnitude struck near Morón, Venezuela, on Wednesday evening, collapsing buildings throughout Caracas and forcing residents into the streets, the US Geological Survey.

What happen in Venezuela?

According to the US Geological Survey, a 7.5 magnitude earthquake hit Venezuela on Wednesday evening. As per reports, massive tremors were felt minutes after parts of Venezuela, including the capital, Caracas, were hit by a 7.2-magnitude earthquake. 

The US Geological Survey identified the tremors as a 'seismic doublet', where a 7.2 magnitude foreshock preceded the 7.5 magnitude mainshock by only 39 seconds, explaining the severe structural damage.

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the epicenter of the first quake was 21 kilometers west of the coastal town of Moron. Less than a minute later, a second 7.5-magnitude quake struck about 45 kilometers away. 

VIDEO | Back-to-back powerful earthquakes struck off the coast of Venezuela collapsing buildings and sending panicked residents into the streets.

The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes roiled the region, with buildings evacuated in cities as far away as Brazil's Amazon about… pic.twitter.com/n3shRn5E6c

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What did the officials say?

Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said the quake was felt in several states, adding that "worrying situations" were reported in the Altamira area of  Caracas, with houses and buildings collapsing.

Cabello appealed to people to stay in open spaces for the time being, as there is a possibility of aftershocks after the earthquake and this could cause further damage to already damaged structures.

Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello reported "alarming situations" in the Altamira neighborhood with collapsed homes and buildings, activating emergency rescue protocols to coordinate aid efforts throughout the capital.

Acting President Delcy Rodriguez declared a state of emergency following the disaster, while the National Weather Service canceled tsunami advisories for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands after the threat subsided.

The USGS warned that "high casualties and extensive damage are probable and the disaster is likely widespread," urging residents to remain outdoors as aftershocks could further destabilize weakened structures.

What about Japan?

Meanwhile, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck northeastern Japan on Thursday morning. Its epicenter was near the Pacific coast of Iwate Prefecture and its depth was 50 kilometers. The tremor was felt in Aomori, Miyagi, Hokkaido, Akita, Yamagata, Fukushima, and even Tokyo.