A magnitude-7.6 earthquake震撼了Caribbean Sea on Saturday, causing tsunami advisories for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The quake’s epicenter was 130 miles southwest of the Cayman Islands, prompting evacuation advice from several governments. Expect waves of 0.3-3 meters in affected areas as authorities monitor the situation closely.
On Saturday, a significant earthquake registering at a magnitude of 7.6 occurred in the Caribbean Sea, south-southwest of the Cayman Islands, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake struck at 6:23 p.m. local time, situated approximately 130 miles from George Town at a depth of 10 kilometers. In anticipation of a tsunami, several islands and countries recommended that coastal residents evacuate inland for safety.
The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center stated that while there is no tsunami alert for the U.S. mainland, a tsunami advisory has been issued for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In response, Hazard Management Cayman Islands advised residents in coastal areas to seek higher ground due to expected wave heights reaching between 0.3 and 1 meter.
Puerto Rico’s Governor, Jenniffer González Colón, confirmed that she is in communication with emergency services following the tsunami advisory, although she did not suggest evacuating the coast. The Dominican Republic has issued a tsunami alert, advising coastal residents to relocate to elevations exceeding 20 meters and to move two kilometers inland from the coast. Additionally, they urged maritime vessels to avoid entering the waters temporarily.
Cuba’s authorities prompted individuals near beaches to evacuate the affected zones. Reports from Honduras indicated no immediate damage, but citizens were advised to refrain from visiting beaches for precautionary measures. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration later commented on potential tsunami waves, predicting heights of 1 to 3 meters along certain coasts of Cuba, while suggesting lower wave heights for Honduras and the Cayman Islands.
In conclusion, the powerful earthquake has prompted various countries in the Caribbean to issue tsunami advisories and alerts to protect residents from potential hazards. The situation is being closely monitored by governmental authorities, emphasizing public safety and preparedness in the wake of the seismic activity.
Earthquakes are natural disasters characterized by the sudden shaking of the ground due to tectonic plate movements. The Caribbean region is particularly vulnerable to such events due to its geological features. The magnitude of an earthquake is a measurement of its energy release, and those exceeding 7.0 are classified as major. Tsunamis can occur following significant seismic events, leading authorities to issue warnings and advisories for coastal areas.
This earthquake highlights the need for continued vigilance and preparedness in seismically active regions such as the Caribbean. Authorities are taking proactive measures to ensure public safety and minimize potential disasters associated with tsunami threats following significant seismic events.
Original Source: kvnutalk.com
