June 25, 2026 — 10:04amCaracas: Back-to-back powerful earthquakes have struck Venezuela, causing buildings to collapse in the capital, Caracas.The US Geological Survey said the first earthquake hit on Wednesday evening (Thursday AEST) with a magnitude of 7.1. The quake’s epicentre was west of the community of Morón, about 168 kilometres west of Caracas, and it had a depth of 13 kilometres.People walk through rubble in Caracas following the quakes.Ariana CubillosMinutes later, the USGS reported an even larger 7.5-magnitude earthquake. The second quake had a depth of 10 kilometres and its epicentre was 16 kilometres south-west of Morón.The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre issued tsunami alerts for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.“Some buildings have been brought down (in Caracas), houses have collapsed,” Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said on state television. He did not give any initial estimates of deaths or injuries, and said protocols were being followed to gather more information. The USGS said that “high casualties and extensive damage” were probable.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 districts of the capital, where restaurants and other businesses are typically busy.Cabello said the quake could be felt in several states, adding that the Altamira district in Caracas had “alarming situations” with collapsed homes and buildings. He urged people to remain outside as aftershocks could further damage some structures.He urged motorists to clear roads for 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. “Be very careful with children and the elderly; call each other and check that no one has been harmed.”APMore to comeFrom our partners