Two powerful quakes hit Venezuela, strong shaking felt in Caracas

CARACAS -- Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela in quick succession on Wednesday evening, both causing strong tremors in the capital of Caracas.

Xinhua correspondents reported shaking windows and toppled bookshelves at their residences in the capital, and images circulating on social media showed collapsed houses on the streets of Caracas.

According to media reports, the earthquakes have caused casualties. Venezuelan authorities have not yet released any official information.

Colombian media also reported the quake was felt strongly in several cities in neighboring Colombia.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported a magnitude 7.1 quake at 2204 GMT on Wednesday, followed just one minute later by an even stronger magnitude 7.5 tremor. Both struck near the coastal town of Moron, about 160 km west of Caracas.

The quakes were shallow, occurring at a depth of 10 km, which could intensify their destructive impact.

The USGS said the two quakes are likely to result in high casualties and extensive damage.