Successive strong earthquakes have struck Venezuela, causing buildings in the capital, Caracas, to collapse

CARACAS, Venezuela – Successive strong earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening, causing buildings in the capital, Caracas, to collapse.

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The USGS said the first quake measured 7.1 and was centered west of the community of Moron, located along the country’s Caribbean coast, about 168 kilometers (104 miles) west of Caracas. The depth of the earthquake was 13 kilometers (8 miles).

A victim is helped from the rubble of a collapsed building in Caracas on Wednesday.Juan Barreto/AFP via Getty Images

Minutes later, the US Geological Survey reported a larger 7.5-magnitude earthquake. The second earthquake was at a depth of 10 kilometers and was centered 16 kilometers (10 miles) southwest of Moron.

The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued tsunami warnings for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

People evacuated the swaying buildings in Caracas and remained outside, many looking in shock when they saw entire walls collapsed, leaving furniture visible from the street. Dust plumes could also be seen in two of the capital’s neighborhoods, where restaurants and other businesses are usually busy.

Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said the earthquake could be felt in several states, adding that the Altamira neighborhood in Caracas was experiencing “worrying conditions” with homes and buildings collapsing. He urged people to stay outside because aftershocks could cause further damage to some buildings.

First responders work at the scene of a building collapse in Caracas following Wednesday’s earthquake. Juan Barreto/AFP via Getty Images

He also noted that people were injured in the quake, and asked motorists to clear the road to make room for ambulances and other emergency vehicles.

“We understand that some people may be desperate, but we are acting according to protocols to activate relief and rescue efforts to help those most in need,” Cabello told state television. “Be very careful with children and the elderly, call each other and make sure no one gets hurt.”

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