Venezuela: A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs off the coast of Sucre State at around 08:21 VET Oct. 7

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in the Caribbean Sea off the coast of the Paria Peninsula in Sucre State at around 08:21 VET Oct. 7. The epicenter was about 73 km (45 miles) east-northeast of Carupano, Sucre State. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 33 km (21 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout northwestern Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, and Grenada. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.