A 7.6 magnitude earthquake rattled the Caribbean Sea, triggering tsunami advisories for several islands. Authorities urged coastal residents to evacuate, though many alerts were later canceled. The event underscores the importance of preparedness and timely responses to natural disasters in vulnerable regions.
A 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea on Saturday, approximately 130 miles south-southwest of George Town in the Cayman Islands, at 6:23 p.m. local time. The quake, reported by the U.S. Geological Survey, occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers. Following the tremor, tsunami alerts were raised for various islands, although many were subsequently lifted after further assessment.
In the aftermath, Hazard Management in the Cayman Islands advised coastal residents to evacuate inland to higher ground due to potential wave heights reaching between 0.3 and 1 meter. The government later announced an “all clear” on social media. Contrastingly, Governor Jenniffer González Colón of Puerto Rico, while monitoring the situation closely, did not recommend coastal evacuations despite the tsunami advisory.
Traffic congestion was reported in Puerto Rico as alarms in the northwest region triggered concerns among residents. The Dominican Republic initially issued a tsunami alert, advising coastal dwellers to seek refuge at elevations above 20 meters and at least 2 kilometers inland, but also later rescinded the warning. Similarly, Honduran officials reported no immediate damage but urged caution for beachgoers, while Cuba’s authorities advised those in beachfront areas to evacuate.
The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration suggested that tsunami waves reaching 1 to 3 meters above tidal levels could impact certain Cuban coasts, indicating a potential risk.
Recent seismic activity in the Caribbean illustrates the persistent risks associated with earthquakes in this region. Given the history of seismic events, it is crucial for coastal communities to respond swiftly to warnings issued by authorities, such as tsunami advisories, to minimize the dangers posed by possible tsunami waves following significant quakes. Understanding the geological background and vulnerability of these areas is vital for effective disaster preparedness and response strategies.
In summary, the magnitude-7.6 earthquake in the Caribbean prompted several islands to issue tsunami alerts and evacuation advisories for coastal residents. While authorities promptly canceled many of these alerts, the incident highlights the need for readiness and timely communication in the face of natural disasters. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and heed warnings from local authorities to ensure their safety.
Original Source: www.wsaz.com
