A 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck north of Honduras in the Caribbean Sea on Saturday, prompting tsunami warnings. The quake occurred at a depth of 10 km, with conflicting reports of its initial magnitude. There have been no confirmed damages or casualties, and warnings for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands were also issued.
On Saturday, a significant earthquake, registering a magnitude of at least 7.5, occurred north of Honduras in the Caribbean Sea. Multiple international research institutions reported this seismic event, with the German Research Center for Geosciences initially estimating the quake at 6.89 magnitude before confirming it at 7.5. The earthquake was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.21 miles), as stated by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), which later adjusted its reading to a 7.6 magnitude.
Authorities have not yet reported any damages or casualties resulting from this earthquake. This incident marks the strongest seismic activity in the area since a 7.2 magnitude quake impacted Haiti in 2021, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s data. The potential effects of the earthquake on land remain unclear, with ongoing assessments occurring in the region.
In response to the earthquake, the US Tsunami Warning System issued warnings for areas in the Caribbean Sea and north of Honduras, but assured that no tsunami threat is anticipated for the US Atlantic or Gulf Coast. Additionally, advisories were released for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands to monitor the situation closely. The warnings aim to ensure the safety of populations in potentially affected areas following the major quake.
Earthquakes in the Caribbean region are not uncommon due to its tectonic setting, which involves the interaction of multiple lithospheric plates. The area frequently experiences seismic activity, with varying magnitudes and impacts. The recent seismic event near Honduras serves as a reminder of the potential for significant geological phenomena in this region, where disaster preparedness is crucial for mitigating risks to life and infrastructure.
The 7.5-magnitude earthquake in the Caribbean Sea has prompted tsunami warnings for the region, highlighting its potential seriousness. As authorities continue to evaluate the extent of any damages and effects, the focus remains on safety and preparedness in the impacted areas. This earthquake is noted as the most powerful in the region since 2021, reinforcing the need for vigilance against natural disasters.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
