Seismologists have recorded a magnitude 7.1 earthquake in the affected region, with the epicentre located 28 km NW of Montalbán, Venezuela. The event occurred at 22:04 UTC on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 and originated at a depth of 13.2 km.
Seismic Context for the affected region
This area sits within a seismically active zone where tectonic stresses periodically build and are released as earthquakes. Global seismic monitoring networks ensure that even remote events are rapidly detected and characterised.
Earthquake science has advanced enormously over the past century, with modern seismograph networks capable of detecting and locating events anywhere on Earth within minutes. However, predicting exactly when and where the next earthquake will strike remains one of science's great unsolved challenges.
About This Event
At a focal depth of 13.2 km, this is classified as a shallow earthquake (0–70 km). Shallow events are typically the most damaging: the seismic energy has less distance to travel before reaching the surface, resulting in stronger and more abrupt ground shaking at the epicentre.
In terms of felt effects, a magnitude 7.1 earthquake is typically potentially destructive across a wide area, capable of causing widespread damage and casualties. Major earthquakes produce violent shaking that can last a minute or longer. Damage is widespread and severe. Ground rupture, large-scale landslides, liquefaction, and infrastructure failure are likely near the epicentre. Events at this magnitude can generate tsunamis if they occur under or near the ocean.
Understanding the Magnitude Scale
Earthquake magnitude is measured on a logarithmic scale — meaning each whole-number increase corresponds to roughly 32 times more energy released and approximately 10 times greater ground motion amplitude. A magnitude 7.1 event therefore releases significantly more energy than its number alone might suggest to the casual observer.
A magnitude 7.1 earthquake is among the most powerful geological events that regularly affect human populations. The energy released — approximately approximately 32 times the energy of a M6.0 earthquake — equivalent to a megaton-class nuclear arsenal — is comparable to the detonation of several nuclear weapons, spread over a fault rupture that can extend for tens or hundreds of kilometres.
Major earthquakes are capable of causing widespread building collapse, particularly in areas with high proportions of older or non-engineered construction. Casualties from building collapses and secondary hazards (fires, gas leaks, dam failure) are a serious concern. Emergency response systems are typically overwhelmed in the immediate aftermath.
What to Do After an Earthquake
Keep an earthquake emergency kit accessible at home. It should include at least 72 hours of water (4 litres per person per day), non-perishable food, a first aid kit, torch, battery-powered radio, copies of important documents, and essential medications. Reviewing and restocking this kit annually is strongly recommended.
Fasten heavy furniture — bookshelves, water heaters, cabinets — to walls using earthquake straps. Store breakable items on lower shelves and heavy items closest to the floor. These simple steps significantly reduce the risk of injury from falling objects.
Staying Informed
Local civil protection agencies and emergency services are the primary authorities during and after an earthquake. Following official guidance, maintaining an emergency kit, and knowing Drop–Cover–Hold On procedures are universally applicable precautions.
QuakeWatch publishes real-time earthquake data sourced from the USGS global catalog — covering every detected seismic event worldwide, 24 hours a day. Visit our live map to see this and all other recent earthquakes, or explore our guide to earthquake magnitude for a deeper understanding of what these numbers mean in practice.
How QuakeWatch Tracks This Event
QuakeWatch sources earthquake data directly from the USGS ComCat (Comprehensive Catalog), which aggregates data contributed by seismic networks worldwide including JMA (Japan), EMSC (Europe and Mediterranean), GFZ (Germany and global), Geoscience Australia, and dozens of national and regional networks. This data is refreshed every 60 seconds, ensuring that new earthquakes appear on our live map within minutes of being processed by the USGS. You can also submit a felt report for this earthquake directly on its detail page.
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