A 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean on December 6, 2023, approximately 130 miles off the Cayman Islands. It was the largest earthquake since 2021, occurring at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. Although a tsunami advisory was initially issued for Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, it was lifted shortly after. Residents of the Cayman Islands were advised to seek higher ground for safety.
On December 6, 2023, a significant earthquake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale struck the Caribbean at 6:23 p.m. local time, approximately 130 miles (209 kilometers) off the Cayman Islands. The United States Geological Survey indicated that the quake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (six miles). This seismic event marks the largest earthquake in the region since the 2021 earthquake in southwestern Haiti, which registered at 7.2 magnitude.
In response to the earthquake, the US National Tsunami Warning Center confirmed that a tsunami advisory initially issued for Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands has been lifted. There were no alerts for the mainland coast of the United States. The authorities in the Cayman Islands, however, issued a tsunami threat alert, advising residents to seek safety by moving inland and to higher ground.
The occurrence of earthquakes is a common natural disaster within the Caribbean region, often resulting from the complex tectonic plate movement along the boundary of the Caribbean Plate. The region has experienced significant seismic activity in the past, prompting earthquake preparedness and response measures among local governments. The United States Geological Survey plays a vital role in monitoring seismic events and providing critical information to mitigate potential hazards associated with such disasters.
In conclusion, the Caribbean faced a notable seismic event with a 7.6 magnitude earthquake occurring off the coast of the Cayman Islands. While a tsunami advisory was briefly issued and subsequently lifted, local authorities prioritized citizen safety by issuing advisories for higher ground. This earthquake serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activities, underscoring the importance of preparedness and timely communication.
Original Source: en.mehrnews.com
