A 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean near the Cayman Islands on Saturday evening, triggering a brief tsunami advisory for nearby islands. Occurring at a depth of 6 miles, the epicenter was located about 125 miles south-southwest of George Town. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or significant damage following the quake.
On Saturday evening, a 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, located approximately 130 miles southwest of the Cayman Islands. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the tremor occurred at 6:23 p.m. EST, with its epicenter situated about 125 miles south-southwest of George Town, at a depth of approximately 6 miles.
In response to the seismic activity, a tsunami advisory was briefly issued for several nearby regions, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. However, this advisory was later rescinded, as no significant threats were reported following the tremor. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries or substantial damage in the affected areas.
The Caribbean region is geologically active due to the interactions of multiple tectonic plates, making it susceptible to earthquakes. These seismic events can lead to concerns about tsunamis, particularly when the epicenter is located under or near the ocean. The magnitude of this earthquake is notable, stressing the importance of preparedness and rapid response from monitoring agencies such as the USGS.
In summary, the recent 7.6-magnitude earthquake near the Cayman Islands highlights the seismic risks faced by the Caribbean region. The temporary tsunami advisory served as a reminder of the potential impacts such events can have on nearby territories. Fortunately, the situation resulted in no reported casualties or extensive damage, underscoring the importance of emergency preparedness.
Original Source: www.accuweather.com