7.1 magnitude earthquake strikes Venezuela, triggers tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands

A preliminary 7.1 magnitude earthquake was reported Wednesday evening in northwest Venezuela, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The earthquake was centered 17.6 miles southeast of the Venezuelan town of Montalbán, the USGS said, and struck at a depth of 8.2 miles.

It triggered tsunami advisories in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, per the National Weather Service’s U.S. Tsunami Warning System.

“Based on all available data, there is a tsunami threat to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands of sea level fluctuations and strong ocean currents that could be a hazard along coasts, beaches, in harbors and in coastal waters,” the weather service said.

Venezuela’s state-run television channel, Venezolana de Televisión, reported that the earthquake was felt across the country, including in Caracas, Venezuela’s capital and its largest city. 

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.

Venezuela’s western neighbor, Colombia, said in a social media post that the earthquake had not sparked a tsunami threat to its Caribbean coastline. 

The possible extent of the damage and the injury toll of the earthquake was still unclear.

This is a developing story and will be updated.