Venezuela's 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Sparks Tsunami Warning

A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck north-central Venezuela near Caracas, prompting evacuations and causing structural damage. The US Tsunami Warning System issued alerts for Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Caribbean islands. The quake was felt in neighboring Colombia, with residents reporting tremors and witnessing building cracks.

A powerful earthquake shook north-central Venezuela on Wednesday afternoon, creating widespread panic among residents, particularly in the capital, Caracas. The earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.1 and a depth of 13 kilometers, was confirmed by the U.S. Geological Survey.

The tremors were strong enough to be felt in neighboring Colombia, causing alarm and prompting swift evacuations from swaying buildings. Witnesses in Caracas reported visible cracks in structures and shattered glass due to the quake's intensity.

Following the seismic event, the U.S. Tsunami Warning System issued an alert for Puerto Rico, the U.S., and British Virgin Islands, as well as Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire. Authorities warned these regions of potential hazardous waves, prompting preparations for possible further impacts.