6.1-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Northwest Venezuela, USGS Says

CARACAS, Venezuela — A 6.1-magnitude earthquake jolted northwest Venezuela on Wednesday, the U.S. Geological Survey said. The epicenter, at a depth of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers), was in the community of Mene Grande, more than 370 miles (600 kilometers) west of the capital, Caracas.

Authorities in Venezuela did not immediately release information on injuries or damage, according to the Associated Press report. The quake struck at 6:44 p.m. local time, and USGS data indicated the shallow depth likely contributed to the intensity of shaking felt in the area.

Shallow earthquakes, defined as those occurring at depths of roughly 70 kilometers or less, can be felt more strongly at the surface than deeper events of the same magnitude. In this case, the 10-kilometer depth places the event in a category that can produce notable shaking over a broad area, especially in regions with varied terrain and infrastructure.

U.S. Geological Survey seismologists monitor tremors across the Caribbean region and routinely update shaking reports as instruments record aftershocks. Officials did not provide a casualty or damage assessment, and there was no immediate information about impacts on roads, buildings, or utilities from initial communications.

The Venezuelan government and civil defense agencies have not issued a formal assessment as of early Thursday. In seismically active parts of northern South America, local authorities typically coordinate with national disaster response agencies to survey affected neighborhoods and to issue guidance on safety and reconstruction if needed. Authorities urged residents in the affected area to remain vigilant for potential aftershocks and to follow official instructions once updated information becomes available.

This report compiles information from U.S. Geological Survey data and AP reporting. Updates will be provided as new details become available.