CARACAS, June 24 (Xinhua) -- Two powerful earthquakes, striking in rapid succession, hit Venezuela on Wednesday, causing buildings to collapse in the capital of Caracas.

File Photo

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported a magnitude 7.1 quake, followed just one minute later by an even stronger 7.5-magnitude tremor, with both hitting near the coastal town of Moron, about 160 km west of Caracas.

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

The USGS said high casualties and extensive damage are likely after the two quakes.