[UPDATED 2018-08-22 @1423 UTC] A magnitude 7.3 earthquake hit northern Venezuela August 21 at 21:32 UTC, some 12 miles north-northwest of Yaguaraparo. The YV5RNE National Emergency Network of the Radio Club Venezolano was activated on 7.088 MHz, and a clear frequency has been requested.

The US Coast and Geological Survey (USGS) said the quake occurred at a depth of 76.5 miles. It was felt as far away as Caracas, some 300 miles to the west but caused no casualties or major damage because of its depth. Buildings in Caracas were evacuated after the powerful earthquake hit, sending shock waves as far west as Bogotá, Colombia, and as far east as Trinidad and Tobago.

Jose Rafael Gomez, YV1GEC, who lives on Isla de Margarita, reported that the earthquake felt strong but said there had been no interruption of electric power or gas service. Roberto Rey, HK3CW, President of La Liga Colombiana de Radio Amadores, said the temblor was “very prolonged” in Bogotá. — Thanks to IARU Region 2 Emergency Coordinator Cesar Pio Santos, HR2P, for some information