Venezuela Earthquake: Twin quakes shake Caracas, how big is the damage?

Back-to-back powerful earthquakes have shaken Venezuela, damaging parts of Caracas, triggering tsunami alerts and raising fears of casualties as rescue teams search collapsed structures.

Post Published By: Donika Singh

Updated : 25 June 2026, 8:17 AM IST

Venezuela Hit By Strongest Quake In Decades. (Image Internet)

Caracas: Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela within minutes, damaging buildings, spreading panic in Caracas and prompting tsunami alerts for parts of the Caribbean. According to initial reports citing the US Geological Survey, the first quake measured around 7.1 in magnitude and was centred off the Caribbean coast near Moron, west of Caracas, at a shallow depth of about 13 kilometres.

A second, stronger tremor measuring 7.5 followed soon after in the same region. It was reported at a depth of nearly 10 kilometres, making the shaking more intense and raising fears of widespread damage.

Panic In Caracas As Buildings Sway

In the capital, residents rushed out of homes, offices and restaurants as buildings shook violently. Several people gathered on roads and open spaces, fearing aftershocks. Visuals from affected areas showed collapsed walls, dust rising from neighbourhoods and damaged structures with household items exposed.

Officials said the tremors were felt across several Venezuelan states. The Altamira district of Caracas was among the areas where serious damage was reported, including collapsed homes and buildings.

Tsunami Alerts And Rescue Efforts

Following the quakes, tsunami alerts were issued for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, while authorities in Venezuela began assessing damage in coastal and urban areas. Rescue teams launched operations to search for people feared trapped under debris.

There were growing concerns about casualties, but officials had not released confirmed figures immediately. The disaster struck during a national public holiday, when many families were at home for events linked to Venezuela’s independence history.

Minister Appeals For Caution

Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello urged people to remain outdoors and stay away from damaged structures as aftershocks could worsen the situation. He also appealed to drivers to keep roads clear for ambulances and rescue teams.

Cabello said emergency protocols had been activated and asked residents to check on children, elderly people and neighbours. Authorities said hospitals and local response units were placed on heightened alert, while rescue and relief operations would continue as teams carefully assess the full impact of one of Venezuela’s strongest earthquakes in decades.