Venezuela Struck by 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 shook northwest Venezuela on June 24, 2026, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The epicenter was located 17.6 miles southeast of Montalbán at a depth of 8.2 miles, causing significant tremors across the region.

The National Weather Service’s U.S. Tsunami Warning System issued tsunami advisories for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The advisory warned of potential sea level changes and strong ocean currents that could pose risks along coastlines, beaches, harbors, and coastal waters.

Venezolana de Televisión, Venezuela’s state-run television, confirmed that the earthquake was felt nationwide, including in Caracas. In the capital, residents evacuated swaying buildings, witnessing collapsed walls that exposed furniture to the streets. Dust clouds were observed in neighborhoods that usually bustle with activity from restaurants and businesses.

Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello reported widespread effects across several states. In Caracas’s Altamira neighborhood, homes and buildings suffered major damage, prompting the Minister to advise people to stay outdoors due to potential aftershocks.

Colombia, Venezuela’s western neighbor, stated via social media that there was no tsunami threat to its Caribbean coast following the earthquake.

The full extent of the damage and the number of injuries remain uncertain as this story continues to develop.