A 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, prompting tsunami advisories for the Cayman Islands. The US Geological Survey noted the tremor’s location and depth. Residents were advised to evacuate to higher ground. Although warnings for Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands were initially issued, they were later canceled.
On Saturday evening, a significant earthquake measuring 7.6 magnitude struck the western Caribbean, prompting a tsunami advisory for the Cayman Islands. According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake occurred at 6:23 PM Eastern Time, approximately 130 miles south-southwest of George Town, at a depth of 6 miles (10 kilometers). In response, the hazard management agency of the Cayman Islands urged residents near the coast to evacuate to higher ground due to the potential tsunami threat.
Authorities cautioned that tsunamis can be deceptively small in height yet cause substantial destruction through strong and widespread water flow. Initial warnings indicated possible dangerous waves for Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands; however, this advisory was subsequently lifted. To summarize, while the earthquake raised alarm, the tsunami threat diminished for these regions shortly thereafter.
Earthquakes are sudden and intense geological events caused by the shifting of tectonic plates within the Earth’s crust. The magnitude of an earthquake indicates its energy release, with higher magnitudes resulting in more significant shaking and potential damage. Tsunami advisories are issued when earthquakes are strong enough to trigger large ocean waves, particularly in coastal areas, underscoring the importance of preparedness and timely evacuation for affected populations.
In conclusion, the magnitude 7.6 earthquake in the western Caribbean has underscored the need for vigilance along coastal regions due to the immediate tsunami threat. Although warnings prompted essential evacuations in the Cayman Islands, the situation remained fluid, with subsequent advisories for nearby territories being lifted. This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by natural disasters and the importance of preparedness among residents in vulnerable areas.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
