Venezuela: A powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck Venezuela on June 24, triggering panic in the capital city of Caracas and prompting tsunami alerts for some U.S. territory islands.

The quake’s epicentre was located about 250 kilometres west of Caracas. Residents across the capital reported strong tremors that lasted for around 10 seconds, sending people rushing out of homes, offices and commercial buildings.

Dramatic visuals shared on social media showed frightened residents gathering in streets as buildings swayed during the shaking. Authorities are assessing the extent of damage and any possible casualties.

The earthquake was felt across several parts of the country and was described as one of the strongest seismic events to affect the region in more than a century. Following the quake, tsunami alerts were issued for certain U.S. territory islands as a precautionary measure.

Emergency response agencies remain on alert while officials continue to monitor aftershocks and evaluate the impact of the disaster.