7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Venezuela, Causing Building Collapses

A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake has struck Venezuela, causing houses and buildings to collapse in the capital, Caracas.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the 7.1 magnitude quake occurred near Montalban in north-central Venezuela on the afternoon of the 24th (local time).

The earthquake struck at a depth of 13 km.

The strong tremor caused buildings across Caracas to shake violently, leading to scenes of panic as residents rushed to evacuate.

One witness reported that cracks appeared on the exterior walls of apartment buildings and that glass windows at building entrances were shattered.

Videos of the streets of Caracas filmed by witnesses show severe damage to the exterior walls of several buildings.

Reports also indicated that power outages and internet disruptions occurred immediately following the quake.

Minister of Interior, Justice and Peace Diosdado Cabello stated that the tremors from the earthquake were felt across several states.

He added that a "concerning situation" has unfolded in the Altamira district of Caracas, where houses and buildings have collapsed.

Tsunami threat warnings have been issued for neighboring Puerto Rico, as well as the U.S. and British Virgin Islands.

The U.S. Tsunami Warning System has warned that dangerous tsunami waves could also strike islands near the Venezuelan coast, including Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire.

Russia's RIA Novosti news agency reported that the powerful earthquake has caused casualties and property damage in the capital, Caracas.

(Photo: Provided by Korea Meteorological Administration, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.