The U.S. Embassy in Caracas issued an alert to Americans in Venezuela on Wednesday (24th), recommending that they seek safe shelter and avoid damaged areas. "The U.S. Embassy in Caracas is closely monitoring the consequences of the earthquake in Venezuela," it stated in a Spanish-language post on X. The diplomatic mission advised U.S. citizens to consult the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) website, which allows the State Department to contact travelers in emergency situations. Read More Itamaraty says it is monitoring reports of Brazilians affected by earthquake 7.1 magnitude earthquake hits Venezuela and triggers tsunami alert Venezuelan minister describes "alarming situations" after earthquakes Strong earthquakes hit Venezuela Powerful earthquakes struck the region west of Venezuela's capital on Wednesday (24th), bringing down buildings in Caracas. Experts estimate "a high number of casualties and extensive damage." A 7.2 magnitude earthquake occurred approximately 160 km west of Caracas, followed by a 7.5 magnitude tremor less than a minute later, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). "There is likely to be a high number of casualties and extensive damage, and the disaster is likely to be widespread," stated the USGS, with an initial death estimate ranging likely between 10,000 and 100,000. Many Venezuelans were at home when the earthquakes occurred, celebrating a national holiday marking a 1821 military victory that secured Venezuelan independence from Spain. "As soon as it started, we heard people screaming," said Astrid Ramirez, a 41-year-old advertising professional who lives in western Caracas. "Everyone was running down the stairs." Venezuela is situated in a seismically active tectonic region, where the Caribbean Plate collides with the South American Plate.
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