Explosions, loud noises and low-flying aircraft have been heard in the Venezuelan capital of Caracas and a southern part of the city was without power, according to reports and witnesses. It was not immediately clear what caused the explosions

At least seven explosions were heard about 2am local time and people in various neighbourhoods rushed to the street, the Associated Press reports.

Venezuela’s government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The explosions come at a time of increased tension between the US and Venezuela. The US military has been targeting in recent weeks alleged drug-smuggling boats.

Donald Trump has repeatedly promised land operations in Venezuela, amid efforts to pressure president Nicolás Maduro to leave office, including expanded sanctions, a ramped-up US military presence in the region and more than two dozen strikes on vessels allegedly involved in trafficking drugs in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea.

The Pentagon did not immediately respond to request for comment.

This is a developing story