CARACAS, Venezuela — A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake followed by a 7.5-magnitude quake shook Venezuela on Wednesday, collapsing buildings in the capital of Caracas.
A Tsunami warning was also issued along the coasts of Venezuela, Bonaire, Curacao and Aruba.
The U.S. Geological Survey said the initial earthquake’s epicenter was west of the community of Moron, located along the country’s Caribbean coast, about 168 kilometers (104 miles) west of Caracas. The quake had a depth of 13 kilometers (8 miles).
USGS said the second quake was near the epicenter of the initial earthquake, located 16 kilometers southwest of Morón, Venezuela.
People evacuated swaying buildings in Caracas and remained outside, many visibly shocked as they saw entire walls that had collapsed, making furniture visible from the street. Dust columns could also be seeing in two neighborhoods of the capital, where restaurants and other businesses are typically busy.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said the quake could be felt in several states, adding that the Altamira neighborhood in Caracas had “alarming situations” with collapsed homes and buildings. He urged people to remain outside as aftershocks could further damage some structures.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
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