A magnitude 7.6 earthquake north of Honduras has triggered a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, with potential sea level fluctuations expected as early as 8:48 p.m. ET. Residents are advised to evacuate beaches and stay away from coastal waters as authorities monitor the situation for further developments.
On Saturday, an earthquake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale struck approximately 20 miles north of Honduras, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). This seismic event occurred at 6:23 p.m. Eastern Time. In light of this earthquake, a tsunami advisory has been issued for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands due to potential sea level changes and strong ocean currents posing risks along the coastal areas.
The US National Tsunami Warning Center has indicated that hazardous sea level fluctuations and strong ocean currents could impact Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, with the earliest expected onset at 8:48 p.m. Eastern Time Saturday. Although the generation of tsunami waves has not yet been confirmed, the NTWC is closely monitoring the situation to ascertain the tsunami threat.
Residents in the affected areas are strongly advised to evacuate water bodies, stay off beaches, and refrain from approaching harbors, marinas, bays, and inlets. This advisory includes a warning against venturing to shore to observe any potential tsunami activity. Authorities will provide updates as this situation continues to develop.
Earthquakes are sudden and powerful geological events caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface. Seismologists, including those at the USGS and US National Tsunami Warning Center, continuously monitor seismic activity to provide timely warnings about potential hazards such as tsunamis, which can result from undersea earthquakes. Tsunamis represent a significant danger to coastal regions, often resulting in life-threatening situations and widespread coastal flooding. The issuance of tsunami advisories serves to protect residents in coastal communities by urging precautionary measures such as evacuating beaches and moving to higher ground.
In summary, a magnitude 7.6 earthquake near Honduras has raised concerns of a tsunami for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, with potential impacts expected later this evening. Residents are urged to take precautions to ensure their safety by avoiding coastal areas as experts assess the threat of dangerous conditions.
Original Source: www.wral.com
