A moderate earthquake struck the northern coast of Venezuela in the early hours of Friday, awakening residents across the Carabobo state and surrounding coastal regions.
The seismic event, registering a magnitude of 4.8, occurred under the cover of a humid, still tropical night typical of the region's mid-year climate.
The tremor was recorded at 04:19:30 UTC, with its epicenter located approximately 17 kilometers west-southwest of the industrial city of Morón.
In the quiet pre-dawn hours, the sudden vibration rattled windows and sent a brief wave of alarm through the sleeping urban centers of Morón and nearby Puerto Cabello.
Local authorities have not immediately reported any major structural damage or casualties in the metropolitan areas closest to the epicenter.
Geological Analysis
The earthquake originated at a shallow depth, a characteristic that often amplifies the perceived shaking of the ground in nearby population centers.
This northern strip of Venezuela is geologically active, defined by the complex boundary interaction between the Caribbean and South American tectonic plates.
Seismologists note that the Boconó fault system, which runs through the region, remains a primary driver of moderate seismic releases in this sector.
Our editorial team carefully monitors seismic data to provide in-depth analysis. Explore our real-time interactive Live Map for more details.