A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck northern Venezuela on Wednesday evening, centred 104 kilometres east of Barquisimeto in Lara state. The quake occurred at 6:04pm local time with a shallow depth of 35 kilometres, causing widespread tremors across cities such as Valencia, San Felipe and Puerto Cabello.
Strong tremors were felt widely, with shaking reported across the Yaracuy and Carabobo regions. Residents described intense movement in homes and buildings. Some tremors were even felt as far away as Puerto Rico, highlighting the extensive reach of the earthquake.
Initial estimates shared on social media suggested a magnitude between 7.1 and 7.5. However, official agencies, including the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), soon revised the magnitude down to 6.2. The quake registered moderate intensity V shaking near the epicentre.
Due to the coastal proximity, precautionary tsunami alerts were briefly discussed. Experts confirmed there was no significant tsunami risk from this event. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
No major damage or casualties have been reported so far. Residents remain alert for possible aftershocks in the hours following the earthquake. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) and EMSC are providing ongoing updates on the situation.
Originally published by UKNIP.
