Powerful Earthquake of 7.1 Magnitude Strikes Northwest Venezuela

A significant earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale hit northwest Venezuela on Wednesday evening, June 24, 2026. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the epicenter was located 17.6 miles southeast of Montalbán, Venezuela. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 8.2 miles.

The event prompted the issuance of tsunami advisories for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, according to the National Weather Service’s U.S. Tsunami Warning System. The advisory warned of potential sea level fluctuations and strong ocean currents. These conditions posed risks to coasts, beaches, harbors, and coastal waters.

Venezuela’s state-run television channel, Venezolana de Televisión, conveyed reports that the tremors were felt across the nation, including in Caracas, which is the capital and largest city. In Caracas, the earthquake led to the evacuation of swaying buildings, with many individuals visibly shocked. Some walls collapsed, leaving furniture exposed on the streets. Dust clouds were observed in certain neighborhoods, disrupting businesses and restaurants typically bustling with activity.

Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello revealed that the quake affected multiple states. He noted alarming incidents in Caracas’s Altamira neighborhood, where homes and buildings collapsed. He advised residents to remain outside, cautioning that aftershocks could cause further damage.

Meanwhile, Colombia announced via social media that its Caribbean coastline was not under a tsunami threat as a result of the earthquake. The full extent of the damage and possible injuries is currently unknown, and updates are expected as the situation unfolds.