Venezuela was struck by two powerful earthquakes on Wednesday, causing panic in several cities and sending tremors across parts of the Caribbean and neighboring countries. The second earthquake hit just minutes after an earlier and stronger tremor, raising concerns about possible damage and tsunami risks in coastal areas.

According to reports, the second earthquake measured 7.2 in magnitude. It followed an earlier quake that the United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded at magnitude 7.5.

First Quake Strikes Near Venezuela’s Coast

The first earthquake occurred at 2204 GMT and was centered around 21 kilometers east of the coastal town of Morón. The USGS said the quake originated at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, which often increases the intensity of shaking felt at the surface.

The strong tremor was felt across a wide area and immediately sparked concern among residents and emergency authorities.

Panic Erupts in Caracas

The earthquake caused scenes of panic in Venezuela’s capital, Caracas. Witnesses reported that people rushed out of buildings as the ground began to shake. In shopping centers, frightened shoppers screamed and hurried toward exits seeking safety.

Residents also evacuated office buildings and apartment complexes. Many gathered in open areas and streets until the shaking stopped before eventually returning indoors. The powerful tremor left many people anxious as authorities assessed the situation.

Tremors Reach Neighboring Countries

The impact of the earthquakes extended well beyond Venezuela. In neighboring Colombia, tremors were felt in the capital city of Bogotá. Warning alarms sounded in several areas, prompting some residents to leave buildings as a precautionary measure.

People in other parts of the Caribbean also reported feeling the shaking. Residents in Aruba, Curaçao and Guyana said the tremors were noticeable, while people in western regions of Venezuela described particularly strong ground movement.

Reports of Damage Surface Online

Following the earthquakes, videos and images circulated on social media appearing to show damage to buildings and infrastructure in parts of Venezuela.

However, officials had not independently verified those reports, and the full extent of the damage remained unclear. Emergency teams continued to gather information from affected areas as inspections got underway.

Así se vio el Terremoto en caracas VENEZUELA, La pastora se rumora que los temblores continuarán así que todos permanezcan en un lugar seguro y aseguren a sus familiares, DIOS TIENE EL CONTROL😖🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/aeG9vB7oXT

— BAEZ👑 (@Baeztvshow) June 24, 2026

Tsunami Warnings Issued After Quake

The powerful earthquake also prompted concerns about potential tsunami activity. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) issued a tsunami advisory covering Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands.

The center also warned that dangerous tsunami waves could be possible within 300 kilometers of the earthquake’s epicenter along the coastlines of Venezuela, Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire. The advisory led authorities to closely monitor sea conditions and assess any potential risks to coastal communities.

Colombia Rules Out Tsunami Threat

Despite the regional warnings, Colombia’s National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) stated that there was no tsunami threat to the country following the earthquake. Officials continued monitoring the situation while coordinating with regional agencies to track any changes in sea levels or seismic activity.

Authorities Continue Damage Assessments

Emergency officials across the affected region remained on high alert as they evaluated the impact of the twin earthquakes. Authorities urged residents living near coastal areas to stay vigilant and be prepared for possible aftershocks. They also advised people to follow official guidance regarding any tsunami-related hazards.

As of the latest reports, there were no immediate indications of significant casualties. However, damage assessments were still ongoing, and officials continued gathering information from impacted communities.

Monitoring Continues After Strong Seismic Activity

The back-to-back earthquakes represent one of the strongest seismic events to affect Venezuela in recent years. While early reports suggest limited immediate casualties, authorities remain focused on assessing structural damage, monitoring aftershocks and ensuring public safety.

Residents throughout Venezuela and neighboring Caribbean regions have been urged to remain cautious as experts continue to evaluate the consequences of the powerful twin quakes.