A 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, prompting evacuation advisories in several islands, including the Cayman Islands and Puerto Rico. Although tsunami warnings were issued and later canceled, residents were urged to remain vigilant and informed regarding safety measures. Immediate reports of damage were minimal, but several coastal areas advised inhabitants to seek higher ground as a precaution against possible tidal surges.
A powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake occurred in the Caribbean Sea, specifically south of the Cayman Islands, on Saturday evening. The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the quake, which struck at 6:23 p.m. local time, was centered 130 miles southwest of George Town with a depth of 10 kilometers. While some islands issued evacuation warnings for residents near coastlines, many authorities subsequently lifted tsunami alerts.
Initially, the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center did not issue a tsunami alert for the mainland United States but provided an advisory for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, which was later canceled. In response, Hazard Management Cayman Islands advised coastal residents to seek higher ground due to anticipated wave heights of 0.3 to 1 meter. A subsequent notification confirmed the situation was safe, updating residents through social media channels.
In Puerto Rico, Governor Jenniffer González Colón indicated she was in communication with emergency services following the awareness of a tsunami advisory. Although alarms prompted numerous residents to evacuate coastal regions, she did not recommend that individuals leave the coast. Local media reported significant traffic as a result of these alerts.
The Dominican Republic also issued a tsunami alert, advising residents along the coast to seek safer ground at elevations above 20 meters and at least 2 kilometers inland, though this alert was ultimately rescinded. Honduran authorities reported no immediate damage but cautioned residents against visiting beaches. Additionally, the government of Cuba encouraged individuals in coastal areas to evacuate as a precautionary measure.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), “tsunami waves reaching 1 to 3 meters above the tide level are possible along some coasts of Cuba.” Authorities in affected regions have continued to monitor the situation closely and communicate necessary safety precautions to residents.
In summary, the 7.6-magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean prompted various responses from island authorities, with temporary evacuations and tsunami advisories issued and later lifted. While immediate damage reports were absent, precautionary measures were taken in multiple regions, particularly along coastlines. Residents were advised to stay informed of updates from local governments as monitoring efforts persist.
Original Source: www.wilx.com
