Updated June 25, 2026 — 10:39am,first published 10:04amCaracas: Back-to-back powerful earthquakes have struck Venezuela, causing buildings to collapse in the capital, Caracas.There is no information yet on deaths or injuries, but the US Geological Survey said “high casualties and extensive damage” were probable.People stand outside damaged buildings in Caracas after the quake struck on Wednesday evening, Venezuelan time. AP Photo/Adrian NaranjoThe first quake hit just after 6pm on Wednesday evening (Thursday AEST) with a magnitude of 7.1. The epicentre was west of the community of Morón, about 168 kilometres west of Caracas, and it had a depth of 13 kilometres.A collapsed building in central Caracas.AP Photo/Adrian NaranjoPeople 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.People stand outside damaged buildings in Caracas after the quake struck on Wednesday evening, Venezuelan time. AP Photo/Adrian NaranjoPeople 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. According to the BBC, June 24 is a public holiday in Venezuela, meaning more people than usual may have been at home when the quakes struck.Dust columns could also be seen in two districts of the capital, where restaurants and other businesses are typically busy.Cabello said the quake was 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 cause further damage.A man sits with his dog outside their home following the quakes.AP Photo/Adrian NaranjoHe 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.”APFrom our partners