WATCH: Twin massive earthquakes shake Venezuela as terrifying Caracas videos flood social media

Venezuela was shaken by two powerful earthquakes that struck within less than a minute of each other on Wednesday evening, causing widespread panic and reports of structural damage, particularly in the capital city of Caracas. The rare back-to-back seismic events rank among the strongest tremors recorded in the country in more than a century. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the first quake was initially estimated at a magnitude of 7.1 before being revised to 7.2. It struck roughly 17.6 miles northwest of the town of Montalbán in northwestern Venezuela at a depth of approximately 8.2 miles. Moments later, a second and even stronger earthquake measuring 7.5 magnitude struck just north of the initial epicenter, around 21 miles from Montalbán.


The powerful earthquake caused significant destruction, with multiple large structures reportedly collapsing across affected areas. Initial reports suggested that several people may have become trapped beneath debris, although authorities had not yet confirmed the number of casualties or fatalities.



Massive clouds of dust rose above parts of the city as damaged buildings crumbled. Residents across affected areas felt intense shaking, prompting people to rush out of homes, offices, and public buildings in fear. Images and videos rapidly shared across social media platforms captured dramatic scenes of swaying structures, crowded streets, and chaotic evacuations as people sought safety outdoors.


Authorities have begun assessing the extent of the destruction and monitoring regions impacted by the quakes. Emergency response teams have been deployed while officials continue evaluating reports of damage and potential casualties.


The strong tremors also briefly triggered tsunami advisories for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands through the US Tsunami Warning System, although those alerts were later withdrawn. Officials continue urging residents to remain alert for possible aftershocks.