A 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea near the Cayman Islands, prompting tsunami advisories. Authorities urged coastal residents to move inland, but warnings were later lifted. The event did not result in significant damage, as emergency protocols were effectively implemented by local governments.
On Saturday, a powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake jolted the Caribbean Sea, located south of the Cayman Islands, according to reports from the U.S. Geological Survey. The quake occurred at 6:23 PM local time, with its epicenter approximately 130 miles (209 kilometers) south-southwest of George Town in the Cayman Islands, at a depth of 10 kilometers. Following the quake, tsunami alerts were issued for several islands, prompting evacuation procedures, but these were later rescinded.
The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center confirmed there was no tsunami alert for the continental United States but had initially issued an advisory for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, which was subsequently canceled. Hazard Management in the Cayman Islands advised residents near the coast to seek higher ground due to the potential for wave heights of 0.3 to 1 meter. The Cayman Islands government later declared an “all clear” on social media.
Puerto Rican Governor Jenniffer González Colón reported maintaining communication with emergency agencies following the tsunami advisory, though she did not advise evacuating coastal areas. Reports from local media indicated that sirens in Puerto Rico’s northwest region led to significant traffic as people fled coastal zones. The Dominican government recommended coastal residents move to elevated areas, also reversing its advisory later.
Honduran authorities reported no immediate damage from the earthquake but reminded residents to stay away from beaches. In Cuba, government officials urged individuals in beachfront areas to evacuate. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration indicated that some coasts of Cuba could experience tsunami waves measuring 1 to 3 meters above normal tide levels.
The Caribbean region is seismically active, and earthquakes in the area can generate significant tsunami threats. The recent 7.6 magnitude earthquake highlights the importance of timely warnings and effective emergency response strategies for residents living in coastal zones. As demonstrated in this incident, rapid communication about tsunami risks and safety measures are crucial for protecting lives and property during such natural disasters.
The 7.6 magnitude earthquake that struck the Caribbean prompted immediate tsunami alerts for several regions, leading to precautionary evacuations. While authorities in the Cayman Islands and Puerto Rico eventually lifted these alerts, the event underscores the importance of preparedness and timely information dissemination in seismic regions. Overall, no significant damage was reported, although high coastal safety protocols were activated across affected territories.
Original Source: www.wifr.com
